Definition of righteously

The word "righteously" has its roots in Old English and Germanic languages. The adjective "right" is derived from the Old English word "riht," which means "straight," "just," or "correct." In the 9th century, "right" began to be used as an adverb, indicating something was done in a just or correct manner. The suffix "-ly" was added to form "righteously," which has been used since the 14th century. Initially, "righteously" meant "in a just or righteous manner." Over time, the word gained connotations of moral rectitude, implying that something was done with a sense of justice or virtue. In modern English, "righteously" is often used to express approval or admiration for someone's righteous behavior or actions, as in "He spoke out against injustice righteously."