Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Thoroughly, completely, or decisively: Used to describe an action done to a full and absolute extent, often implying a clear and undeniable outcome.
   • Deeply and without disturbance: Used to describe a state of sleep or rest that is profound and uninterrupted.

Examples of Usage

• Thoroughly/Completely: The home team was soundly defeated in the final match. Her argument was soundly rejected by the committee.

• Deeply (sleep): After the long hike, he slept soundly for ten hours. The baby is sleeping soundly in the crib.

Advanced Usage

• "to be soundly beaten": to be defeated completely and decisively. The champion was soundly beaten by the new contender.

• "to sleep soundly": to sleep very deeply and peacefully. I can sleep soundly knowing the project is finished.

Variants and Related Words

• Sound (adjective): In good condition; solid, secure, or reliable. The bridge is structurally sound. He gave me some sound advice.

• Soundness (noun): The quality of being based on valid reason or good judgment. The soundness of his theory was later proven.

Synonyms

• Thoroughly: In a thorough manner; completely.
• Completely: Totally; entirely.
• Decisively: In a manner that settles an issue convincingly.
• Deeply: Far down or in; profoundly (for sleep).

Related Phrases

• Beat soundly: To defeat someone completely. The underdog team beat the favorites soundly.

• Sleep soundly: To enjoy a very deep and restful sleep. With the noise-canceling headphones, she could sleep soundly on the plane.

Adverb

1. completely and absolutely (`good' is sometimes used informally for `thoroughly')
   • he was soundly defeated
   • we beat him good
2. deeply or completely
   • slept soundly through the storm
   • the baby is sleeping soundly