adv. [f. AFFECTIONATE a. + -LY2.] In an affectionate manner.
† 1. With strong inclination; eagerly, zealously, earnestly. Obs.
1588. W. Averell, Combat of Contrar., B. They turn a number of their beholders into stones, who while they affectionatlie gaze on their painted pride, doe lose the reason of men and become like stones.
1609. Holland, Amm. Marcell., XV. iii. 32. A man at all times affectionately given [avidum] to entertain the worst matters.
1723. Blackall, Wks., I. 487. I can see no Reason why we may not as well use the Lord’s Prayer (provided that we do it devoutly and affectionately) twice, thrice or oftener.
† 2. With a biased or partizan spirit; partially, interestedly. Obs.
1610. Carleton, Jurisd., 121. The first persecution began against them, that were called Albingenses: whose opinions are made hainous by some that write affectionately since that time.
3. With favorable disposition, kindly, lovingly, fondly.
1606. Shaks., Tr. & Cr., III. i. 74. My lord Pandarus: honey-sweet lord … commends himselfe most affectionately to you.
1611. Bible, 1 Thess. ii. 8. Being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to haue imparted onto you. [Wyclif We desiryng ȝou with greet loue.]
1650. Fuller, Pisgah Sight, II. xii. 247. Strange, that strangers … should so affectionately bemoan the death of a man no whit related unto them.
1814. Wordsworth, Excursion, V. 101. As a king Is styled, when most affectionately praised, The father of his people.
1853. Lytton, My Novel, IV. xvi. 199. Mrs. Riccabocca took her husband’s proffered hand affectionately.
