Langimage
English

celestially

|se-les-ti-al-ly|

C1

/səˈlɛs.tʃəl/

(celestial)

heavenly or sky-related

Base FormPluralComparativeSuperlativeNounAdverb
celestialcelestialsmore celestialmost celestialcelestialitycelestially
Etymology
Etymology Information

'celestial' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'caelestis', where 'caelum' meant 'sky' or 'heaven'.

Historical Evolution

'celestial' changed from Latin 'caelestis' into Late Latin/Old French forms (e.g. 'celeste') and entered Middle English, eventually becoming the modern English word 'celestial'.

Meaning Changes

Initially it meant 'of the sky or heavens'; over time it retained that sense but broadened to include 'heavenly' or 'divinely sublime' and usages relating to astronomy ('of the celestial bodies').

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a heavenly, divine, or sublime manner; like something from heaven.

The choir sang so celestially that many in the audience were moved to tears.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adverb 2

relating to the sky, outer space, or astronomical bodies; in an astronomical manner.

The planets were aligned celestially, providing a rare view for astronomers.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/09/09 13:55