fussily
|fus-si-ly|
/ˈfʌsi/
(fussy)
overly concerned with details
Etymology
'fussy' (base of 'fussily') originates from English formation of 'fuss' + suffix '-y', where the suffix '-y' forms adjectives meaning 'characterized by'.
'fuss' (noun/verb) appeared in English in the mid 17th century (c. 1650s) of uncertain or imitative origin; later the adjective 'fussy' was formed (early 19th century) and the adverb 'fussily' was derived from that adjective.
Initially related to the noun 'fuss' meaning 'a state of commotion or excessive attention'; over time 'fussy' and then 'fussily' narrowed to mean 'overly particular or fastidious about small details.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a fussy manner; showing excessive concern about small details or neatness.
She arranged the plates fussily until every pattern lined up perfectly.
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Adverb 2
in an irritable or complaining way about trivial matters.
He answered fussily when asked to repeat the instructions.
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Last updated: 2025/09/27 13:08