Meaning & Definition of word "Awfully"

Awfully

/ˈɔːf(ə)li/

adverb:

  • 1. To an extreme degree; very.
    • Example: The movie was awfully good, much better than I expected.
  • 2. In a manner that is very bad or unpleasant.
    • Example: The weather was awfully cold during our trip.
  • 3. Used as an intensifier to express a strong degree of something.
    • Example: I felt awfully tired after running the marathon.
  • 4. In an exceedingly or overly exaggerated way.
    • Example: She was awfully quick to judge without knowing the facts.

Etymology

From 'awful' + '-ly', originally meaning 'in a way that inspires awe'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Awfully nice:

A sarcastic expression indicating that something is not as nice as it seems.

Awfully good:

Used to emphasize that something is surprisingly good.

Awfully quiet:

Referring to an unusual and noticeable silence.

Related Words

awful:

Inspiring dread or fear; very bad.

awesomeness:

The quality of being extremely impressive or daunting.

Slang Meanings of awfully

Meaning: Really bad or terrible.

Example Sentence: That concert was awfully.

Meaning: Used for emphasis in a casual context.

Example Sentence: I'm awfully hungry right now!