gai·ly adverb orgay·ly\ˈgālē, -li\ Etymology: Middle English gayly, from gay + -ly 1.: in a gay manner: a.: with marked liveliness, cheerfulness, or high spirits < she then ran gaily off, rejoicing — Jane Austen > : merrily b.: with finery, elegance, or showiness (as of dress) < ladies gaily dressed > c.: in a manner that is colorful and tends to arouse gaiety < gaily decorated floats > 2.chiefly Scotland: pretty much : to a considerable extent or degree