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Definition of archly

archly

/ˈɑːrtʃ.li/
arch · ly
Adjective:arch
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archly Lexical Profile

archly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a deliberately teasing, playfully mischievous, or knowingly ironic manner.

Example

"She raised an eyebrow and smiled archly at his transparent excuse for arriving late."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for archly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for archly

• Nearby Words

archive
archivist
archlike
archly
archocystosyrinx
archrival
archway

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 17th century from the adjective 'arch' (meaning roguish, sly, or playfully mischievous, originally derived from the prefix 'arch-' as in 'arch-rogue') combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

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