Langimage
English

anally

|an-al-ly|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˈæn.əl.i/

🇬🇧

/ˈæn.əli/

relating to the anus; overly meticulous

Etymology
Etymology Information

'anally' originates from English, specifically from the word 'anal' with the adverbial suffix '-ly', where 'anal' meant 'relating to the anus'.

Historical Evolution

'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'.

Meaning Changes

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