awfully
|aw/ful/ly|
B1
/ˈɔːfli/
(awful)
extremely bad
Etymology
Etymology Information
'awfully' originates from the word 'awful,' which comes from Middle English 'awful,' meaning 'worthy of respect or fear.'
Historical Evolution
'awful' changed from the Old English word 'egefull,' which meant 'full of awe or fear,' and eventually became the modern English word 'awful.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'worthy of respect or fear,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'extremely' or 'very.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
to a very great or extreme degree.
The weather was awfully cold yesterday.
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Antonyms
Adverb 2
in a manner that inspires fear or awe.
The storm raged awfully through the night.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/21 23:21