Girlishly

/ˈɡɪrlɪʃli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb
In a manner characteristic of or resembling a girl, often implying traits such as playfulness, innocence, or emotional expressiveness.
She laughed girlishly, her eyes sparkling with delight.
In a way that reflects stereotypical characteristics associated with young girls, sometimes suggesting fragility or naivety.
He spoke girlishly, his voice soft and melodious.
In a manner that embodies the interests or behaviors typically associated with girls, such as being whimsical or preoccupied with appearance.
The room was decorated girlishly, with pink curtains and floral patterns everywhere.

Etymology

Derived from 'girl' with the suffix '-ishly' indicating a manner of being.

Common Phrases and Expressions

girlish charm
A quality of being endearingly feminine or youthful.
girlish laughter
A light, playful laugh often associated with young girls.

Related Words

girlish
Characteristic of a girl.
girlhood
The state or period of being a girl.
feminine
Having qualities traditionally associated with girls or women.

Slang Meanings

To act cutesy or overly sweet.
She was girlishly fluttering her eyelashes at him.
To show exaggerated female traits.
He was acting girlishly when he couldn't handle the spooky movie.