literally
|lit/er/al/ly|
B2
/ˈlɪtərəli/
(literal)
exactly as stated
Etymology
Etymology Information
'literally' originates from the Latin word 'litteralis,' where 'littera' meant 'letter.'
Historical Evolution
'litteralis' transformed into the Old French word 'literal,' and eventually became the modern English word 'literal' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'pertaining to letters or literature,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'exactly as stated.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a literal manner; exactly as stated.
He literally jumped out of his seat when he heard the news.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adverb 2
used for emphasis while not being literally true.
I literally died laughing.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35