(now rare) With great scrutiny; carefully. / With close relation; intimately. / Closely, in close proximity. / In close approximation; almost, virtually. / Stingily.

(rare) The quality of nearly being something, or nearly reaching a point; incomplete state.

A man who fails to achieve the success or status that he might potentially have had.

plural of nearly man

(Ireland) Near enough is not good enough.

Alternative spelling of nearliness