American Dictionary of the English Language

Dictionary Search

Meanly


ME'ANLY, adverb [See Mean.] Moderately; not in a great degree.

In the reign of Domitian, poetry was meanly cultivated. [Not used.]

1. Without dignity or rank; in a low condition; as meanly born.

2. Poorly; as meanly dressed.

3. Without greatness or elevation of mind; without honor; with a low mind or narrow views. He meanly declines to fulfill his promise.

Would you meanly thus rely

On power, you know, I must obey?

4. Without respect; disrespectfully. We cannot bear to hear others speak meanly of our kindred.