Dreadfully

/ˈdrɛd.fəl.i/

Meaning & Definition

adverb
In a dreadful manner; extremely or very badly.
The storm last night was dreadfully intense, causing widespread damage.
In a way that causes fear or apprehension; alarmingly.
She was dreadfully afraid of speaking in public.
Used for emphasis, typically to indicate a negative quality.
He seemed dreadfully tired after the long journey.
In a way that is very unpleasant or unfortunate.
The movie was dreadfully boring, and we left before it ended.
To a great extent or degree.
She was dreadfully upset after hearing the bad news.

Etymology

From Middle English dredful, from dread + -fully.

Common Phrases and Expressions

dreadfully sorry
Feeling very regretful or apologetic.
dreadfully ill
Suffering from a serious illness.
dreadfully boring
Extremely uninteresting.

Related Words

dread
A strong fear or apprehension.
dreadful
Causing dread.

Slang Meanings

Used for emphasis to describe something very bad.
That movie was dreadfully boring!
An expression of frustration or annoyance.
I'm dreadfully tired of this nonsense.