really

Etymology 1

From Middle English really, realy, rialliche, equivalent to real + -ly.

adv

1. (literally) In a way or manner that is real, not unreal.
   We are to believe that by an extraordinary Conception by Means of the holy Ghost he in an extraordinary MANNER, (unknown to us) really assumed Flesh, and was by her nourished in the Womb and in due Time born in a natural Manner, and that whilst on Earth he was really hungry, and dry, and eat and drank as really as other Men, without, any Deception of Sight in us or Delusion whatsoever. 1751, John Roche, Moravian Heresy, page 168
   If we take the phenomenal world as it strikes our senses, in all its varied and wonderful powers and aspects; as the mere symbol of the Divine Presence and power, that is, according to Christ, ever in, through, and over all, as really as are causal light, heat and gravity, or as really as our own life and souls pervade every atom of our bodies, … 1878, Jonathan Baldwin Turner, Christ's Words as Related to Science,..., page 52
   Thus Brahman must be described as ‘really real’, while a rope, or a person, or God Himself, is ‘unreally real’. And it is only the Vedantin who can distinguish the real from the unreal, for to others all seems real. 1975, Robin H. S. Boyd, An introduction to Indian Christian theology, page 48
2. (modal) Actually; in fact; in reality.
   "He really is a true friend." / "Really? What makes you so sure?"
3. (informal, as an intensifier) Very (modifying an adjective); very much (modifying a verb).
   But ma, I really, really want to go to the show!

intj

1. Indicating surprise at, or requesting confirmation of, some new information; to express skepticism.
   A: He won the Nobel Prize yesterday.
   B: Really?
2. (colloquial, sarcastic, typically exaggerated question.) Indicating that what was just said was obvious and unnecessary; contrived incredulity
   A: I've just been reading Shakespeare - he's one of the best authors like, ever!
   B: Really.
3. (colloquial, chiefly US) Indicating affirmation, agreement.
   A: That girl talks about herself way too much.
   B: Really. She's a nightmare.
4. Indicating displeasure at another person's behaviour or statement.
   Well, really! How rude.

Etymology 2

re- + ally

verb

1. Alternative form of re-ally
   She wished since long to die and to be reallied with her children in heaven. 1917, German American Annals, page 69
   Following the election, those who had publicly opposed Harding hastened to really themselves with Republicans who had remained in the party. 1997, Warren F. Kuehl, Lynne Dunn, Keeping the Covenant: American Internationalists and the League of Nations, 1920-1939, Kent State University Press, page 19