Definition of merelynext
as in just
nothing more than the outside noise was merely a raccoon knocking over the garbage can

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of merely But Splashtop goes beyond merely managing antivirus remotely, giving you full control over all aspects of the remote computer. Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, 23 Aug. 2026 Coach Jeff Hafley merely wanted the rookie, who has been recovering from his torn ACL in November while finishing his college career at Louisville, to go through a pregame routine. David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2026 During a penumbral eclipse, the moon merely brushes this outer zone and often appears only subtly dimmed. Jamie Carter, Space.com, 21 Aug. 2026 Some of the bigger names on the film’s soundtrack album, like Van Halen and Red Hot Chili Peppers, merely approved the inclusion of years-old hits. Al Shipley, SPIN, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for merely
Recent Examples of Synonyms for merely
Adverb
  • But his record of publicly interacting with Piker — including at a pool party just before the primary — remains a sore point among some Michigan Democrats.
    Nicholas Wu, semafor.com, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Search and rescue efforts are only just beginning, and these first hours are filled with uncertainty, but also with hope.
    Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 27 Aug. 2026
Adverb
  • Lisa is seeing what this experience could be for her, which only emphasized just how bad her current situation on RHOSLC is.
    Tom Smyth, Vulture, 31 Aug. 2026
  • What Espada and his club did across the ensuing six days must only enhance Crane’s outlook.
    Chandler Rome, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026
Adverb
  • Our first feature profile this week focuses on Cristiano Ronaldo, often referred to simply as CR7.
    , CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Emotions that pile on top of each other and simply knock you out.
    John Biemer, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Merely.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/merely. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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