glad·ly I. adjective (-er/-est) Etymology: Middle English, from Old English glædlīc pleasant, shining archaic: glad II. adverb (sometimes-er/-est) Etymology: Middle English, from Old English glædlīce, adverb from glædlīc pleasant, shining, from glæd shining, glad + -līc -ly (adjective suffix) : in a glad manner: a.: with happiness and joy : joyfully < gladly welcomed him home again > b.: very willingly : cheerfully < your money will be gladly refunded >