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Definition of dully

dully

/ˈdʌl.li/
dul · ly
Adjective:dull
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dully Lexical Profile

dully Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner lacking interest, excitement, liveliness, or spirit; listlessly or tediously.

Example

"The exhausted commuter stared dully out the train window as the gray suburbs rolled past."

2

Without brightness, resonance, or sharpness (of light, color, sound, or physical pain); dimly or faintly.

Example

"The old copper kettle gleamed dully in the dim light of the kitchen."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for dully
Antonyms
View all antonyms for dully

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'dully' (in a dull, dim, or listless manner, pronounced with a short 'u' as in 'dull') with 'duly' (properly, fittingly, or at the expected time, pronounced 'doo-lee').

• Rhymes for dully

• Nearby Words

dullish
dullness
dullsville
dully
dulse
duluth
duly

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'dull' (from Old English 'dol', meaning foolish or slow-witted) combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

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