Merely
/ˈmɜːr.li/noun
Only as specified; nothing more.
Did you know?In its earliest forms, 'merely' was associated with the concept of being 'pure' or 'unmixed', hinting at a deep connection to nature and clarity.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
Old English
mǣre
“A boundary or a lake; related to the concept of a sea or large body of water.”
Middle English
Middle English
mereliche
“In a pure or unmixed manner, often associated with clarity or simplicity.”
14th Century
Middle English
merely
“Exclusively or solely; emphasizing a distinction or limit.”
Modern English
English
merely
“Used to denote something that is only what it is; no more, no less.”