1. merely, simply, just, only, but - and nothing more; "I was merely asking"; "it is simply a matter of time"; "just a scratch"; "he was only a child"; "hopes that last but a moment"
   Derived from adjective mere(prenominal)₂
   

Merely (adverb)

Definition: Only; just; nothing more than.
Example sentence: She was merely a beginner in her field of study.

Merely (adjective)

Definition: Used to emphasize how small or unimportant someone or something is.
Example sentence: The lonely tree merely casted a small shadow on the vast field.

Merely (verb)

Definition: Act or be associated in a superficial way.
Example sentence: He merely smiled and nodded, not contributing anything to the discussion.

Merely (noun)

Definition: A small village or locality.
Example sentence: The quaint merely of Stoneybrook was known for its tight-knit community.