actively, adv.
(ˈæktɪvlɪ)
[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 Shakes. Ham. 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. |