Meaning & Definition of word "Girlishly"

Girlishly

/ˈɡɪrlɪʃli/

adverb:

  • 1. In a manner characteristic of or resembling a girl, often implying traits such as playfulness, innocence, or emotional expressiveness.
    • Example: She laughed girlishly, her eyes sparkling with delight.
  • 2. In a way that reflects stereotypical characteristics associated with young girls, sometimes suggesting fragility or naivety.
    • Example: He spoke girlishly, his voice soft and melodious.
  • 3. In a manner that embodies the interests or behaviors typically associated with girls, such as being whimsical or preoccupied with appearance.
    • Example: 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 of girlishly

Meaning: To act cutesy or overly sweet.

Example Sentence: She was girlishly fluttering her eyelashes at him.

Meaning: To show exaggerated female traits.

Example Sentence: He was acting girlishly when he couldn't handle the spooky movie.