adv. [f. ACTIVE a. + -LY2.] In an active manner; hence
† 1. In action, as opposed to contemplation; practically, in practical life. Obs.
c. 1400. Apol. for Loll., 22. Neþeles it is not to deme þat ne it is leful to curse accessorily; for þat tendiþ but to men lifing actifly.
2. In originating action; by one’s own action; voluntarily, spontaneously. (Opposed to passively.)
1590. H. Swinburn, Testaments, 203. He that is condemned for a famous libell is intestable, both actiuely and passiuely: that is to say, he can neither make a testament, nor receiue anie benefite by a testament.
1649. Bp. Hall, Cases of Consc. (1654), 38. Is the fraud actively yours, done by you to another?
1849. Macaulay, Hist. Eng., II. 635. The king was at least passive. He could not actively counterwork the regent.
1858. Motley, Dutch Repub., Introd. v. 19. His son Poppo … did not actively oppose the introduction of Christianity.
3. Grammar. In the manner or with the construction of an active verb; a. in a manner asserting action; b. transitively.
1612. Brinsley, Pos. Parts (1669), 30. Deponents … signifying Actively, that is, when they are construed like Actives … Active Verbs or Verbs signifying Actively govern the Accusative. Ibid., 37. Rehearse them Actively and Passively together.
1661. Grand Debate, 88. Nulla salus in nobis is spoken actively and not possessively or passively.
4. With effective or vigorous action; energetically, busily; briskly, nimbly.
1602. Shaks., Haml., III. iv. 87. Since Frost itselfe as actiuely doth burne, And Reason panders Will.
1605. Stow, Ann., 1429, 9. Trumpets and a kettle drome did very actiuely sound the Danish march.
1646. Sir T. Browne, Pseud. Ep., 189. Some most actively use the contrary arme and leg.
1816. Scott, Old Mort., 217. Actively engaged in his military duties.
1869. Phillips, Vesuv., iii. 79. Within the crater was found a round and small actively eruptive cone.
