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Definition of harrowingly

harrowingly

/ˈhær.oʊ.ɪŋ.li/
har · row · ing · ly
Adjective:harrowing
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harrowingly Lexical Profile

harrowingly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In an acutely distressing, agonizing, or terrifying manner.

Example

"The documentary portrays the aftermath of the natural disaster harrowingly."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

harrier
harrow
harrowing
harrowingly
harrumph
harry
harsh

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the participial adjective harrowing plus the adverbial suffix -ly. The verb harrow stems from Middle English harwen, referring to a spiked agricultural implement dragged over plowed soil, which developed a figurative sense of lacerating or tormenting the mind.

Cite this Entry

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