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Definition of anxiously

anxiously

/ˈæŋk.ʃəs.li/
anx · ious · ly
Adjective:anxious
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anxiously Lexical Profile

anxiously Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner marked by worry, nervousness, or unease about an uncertain event or outcome.

Example

"The parents waited anxiously outside the examination room for news from the doctor."

2

In an earnest, impatient, or eager manner; with keen desire.

Example

"The students are anxiously looking forward to the start of their summer vacation."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for anxiously
Antonyms
View all antonyms for anxiously

Word Nuance & Usage

While traditional usage restricts "anxiously" to contexts involving worry or dread, it is widely used in modern standard English to mean "eagerly" or "impatiently" (e.g., "anxiously awaiting the holidays"). In formal writing, "eagerly" is preferred when the anticipation is purely positive.

• Rhymes for anxiously

• Nearby Words

anvil
anxiety
anxious
anxiously
anxiousness
any
anybody

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Anxiously. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/anxiously
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