WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.
adverb.
in a grave and sober manner
adverb.
to a severe or serious degree
Word Usage
"Well, today at mass, last night in a speech to U.S. bishops, and even on the plane en route to Washington, the pope has faced up to what he calls the gravely immoral sexual abuse of children by priests."