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Definition of fretfully

fretfully

/ˈfrɛt.fə.li/
fret · ful · ly
Adjective:fretful
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fretfully Lexical Profile

fretfully Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a distressed, anxious, irritable, or restless manner.

Example

"The exhausted infant cried fretfully throughout the long flight until she finally fell asleep."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for fretfully

• Nearby Words

fret
fretboard
fretful
fretfully
fretfulness
fretless
friar

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the adjective 'fretful' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. The root 'fret' traces back to Old English 'fretan' (to devour or consume), which metaphorically evolved to describe gnawing worry or agitation.

Cite this Entry

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