ponderously
|pon/der/ous/ly|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈpɑːndərəsli/
🇬🇧
/ˈpɒndərəsli/
(ponderous)
heavy and slow
Etymology
Etymology Information
'ponderous' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ponderosus,' where 'ponder-' meant 'weight.'
Historical Evolution
'ponderosus' transformed into the Old French word 'ponderous,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ponderous' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'having great weight,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'slow and clumsy because of great weight.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that is slow and clumsy because of great weight.
He moved ponderously across the room.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/02/20 23:05