Langimage
English

unenthusiastically

|un/en/thusi/as/ti/cal/ly|

C1

/ˌʌnɪnˌθjuːziˈæstɪkli/

(unenthusiastic)

lacking enthusiasm

Base FormAdverb
unenthusiasticunenthusiastically
Etymology
Etymology Information

'unenthusiastically' originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'enthusiastic,' which comes from the Greek word 'enthousiasmos,' meaning 'inspiration or possession by a god.'

Historical Evolution

'enthousiasmos' transformed into the Latin word 'enthusiasmus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'enthusiastic,' with 'un-' added to form 'unenthusiastic.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, 'enthousiasmos' meant 'inspiration or possession by a god,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having or showing intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a manner lacking enthusiasm or excitement.

She nodded unenthusiastically at the suggestion.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45