earnestly UK /ˈɜːnɪstli/US /ˈɝnɪstli/ adverb1 •In an earnest manner; being very sincere; putting forth genuine effort.The Scarecrow and the Tin Woodman and the Lion now thanked the Good Witch earnestly for her kindness, […] — 1900 formsearnestlier · more earnestly · most earnestly