adv. 5–; also 4 abelyche, abilly, 5–6 ablie [f. ABLE a. + -LY2.] In an able manner; with fitness, power, or cleverness.

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1398.  Trevisa, Barth. De P. R. (1495), XII. xvii. 425. In fyghtynge the cocke meuyth the fethers of his tayle … that he maye soo the more ably come to the batayle.

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c. 1430.  Freemasonry, 243. That he the craft abelyche may conne.

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1592.  Wyrley, Armorie, iv. 89. Thinking it against our power sure Ablie well, one yeare strong to indure.

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1855.  Macaulay, Hist. Eng., III. 525. He had … done his duty ably, honestly, and fearlessly.

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1876.  Freeman, Norm. Conq., II. x. 477. Never was a campaign more ably planned.

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