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Definition of gingerly

gingerly

/ˈdʒɪn.dʒər.li/
gin · ger · ly
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gingerly Lexical Profile

gingerly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a careful, cautious, or tentative manner, especially so as to avoid pain, injury, noise, or damage.

Example

"He stepped gingerly across the icy pavement to avoid slipping."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adjective

1

Showing great care, caution, or wariness, especially to avoid causing pain, noise, or damage.

Example

"With a gingerly touch, the conservator lifted the brittle manuscript page from its binding."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for gingerly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for gingerly

Word Nuance & Usage

Despite ending in '-ly', 'gingerly' functions as both an adverb ('stepped gingerly') and an adjective ('a gingerly step'), though its adverbial use is far more common.

• Nearby Words

ginger lily
gingerbread
gingerliness
gingerly
gingerroot
gingersnap
gingery

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 16th century, probably from Old French 'gensor' (delicate, dainty, or graceful), the comparative of 'gent' (well-born, noble, or nice), rather than from the spice ginger.

Cite this Entry

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