anally
|an-al-ly|
🇺🇸
/ˈæn.əl.i/
🇬🇧
/ˈæn.əli/
relating to the anus; overly meticulous
Etymology
'anally' originates from English, specifically from the word 'anal' with the adverbial suffix '-ly', where 'anal' meant 'relating to the anus'.
'anal' comes from the French word 'anal', which in turn comes from the Latin word 'analis', derived from 'anus' meaning 'ring' or 'anus'. The adverbial form 'anally' was created in modern English by adding '-ly'.
Initially, it meant 'in a manner relating to the anus', but over time it also gained the figurative meaning of 'in an overly meticulous or controlling way' in psychological contexts.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner relating to the anus or anal region.
The medication is administered anally.
Synonyms
Adverb 2
in a way that is excessively concerned with order, control, or detail (derived from psychoanalytic terminology).
He organizes his desk anally, with everything in its exact place.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/07/28 15:06
