Search Dictionary
Definition of lamely

lamely

/ˈleɪm.li/
lame · ly
Adjective:lame
JUMP TO:

lamely Lexical Profile

lamely Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a weak, unconvincing, or unsatisfactory manner, especially when offering an excuse, argument, or explanation.

Example

"When asked why the report was still unfinished, he lamely blamed a minor computer glitch."

2

With a limp or difficulty in walking due to an injury or physical impairment of the leg or foot.

Example

"The exhausted hiker walked lamely toward the cabin after twisting his ankle on the rocky trail."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for lamely
Antonyms
View all antonyms for lamely

• Rhymes for lamely

• Nearby Words

lame
lamebrain
lamebrained
lamely
lameness
lament
lamentable

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'lame' (from Old English 'lama', meaning crippled or weak) combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Lamely. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/lamely
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.