adverb (r)

• for a short time(adv.all)

  Example:
  He was at the airport shortly before she was expected to arrive.
  

  Synonym:
  awhile, briefly, for a while
  

  source: wordnet30
• in the near future(adv.all)

  Example:
  The book will appear shortly.
  

  source: wordnet30
• in a curt, abrupt and discourteous manner(adv.all)

  Example:
  He said shortly that he didn't like it.
  

  Synonym:
  curtly, short
  

  source: wordnet30
• in a concise manner; in a few words(adv.all)

  Example:
  To put it shortly.
  

  Synonym:
  briefly, concisely, in brief, in short
  

  source: wordnet30
• at a short distance(adv.all)

  Example:
  The hem fell shortly below her knees.
  

  source: wordnet30
• In a short or brief time or manner; soon; quickly.(adverb)

  source: webster1913