Definition of lovely

The word "lovely" has its roots in Old English and Germanic languages. The earliest recorded use of a word that sounds similar to "lovely" dates back to the 8th century in Old English as "lufum" or "lufian," which meant "to love" or "to be loved." The word evolved over time, and by the 14th century, it had taken the form of "lovely," which referred to something pleasing or delightful. The Old English word "luf" also meant "love" or "affection," and when combined with the suffix "-ly," it became a noun that described something endearing or charming. In modern English, "lovely" is used to express admiration, appreciation, or affection for something or someone, and its origins reflect how our language has developed over time to convey emotions and descriptions in a rich and nuanced way.