Definition of radiantly

The word "radiantly" comes from the Latin "radius," meaning "ray" or "beam." In the 15th century, the Latin word was borrowed into Middle English as "radiant," meaning "giving off rays" or "glowing." The word initially referred to the emission of light or heat, such as the radiance of the sun or a fire. Later, the adjective "radiant" emerged, describing something that gives off light or that is characterized by a bright, shining quality. In the 17th century, the adverb "radiantly" arose, modifying verbs to indicate the manner in which something is done, such as "she smiles radiantly" or "the flowers bloom radiantly." Today, "radiantly" is used to describe anything that shines brightly, both literally and figuratively.