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Definition of literally

literally

/ˈlɪt.ɚ.əl.i/
lit · er · al · ly
Adjective:literal
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literally Lexical Profile

literally Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a literal manner or sense; exactly as stated, without exaggeration, metaphor, or figurative interpretation.

Example

"The idiom should not be taken literally, as it relies on a historical metaphor."

2

Used in an informal or hyperbolic manner for emphasis or to express strong feeling while not being factually true.

Example

"After working a twelve-hour shift on my feet, I was literally dying of exhaustion."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for literally

Word Nuance & Usage

While traditionally meaning 'without exaggeration or metaphor,' 'literally' has been used as a figurative intensifier since at least the 18th century; however, this hyperbolic sense is still widely criticized in formal writing and should be reserved for informal speech.

• Nearby Words

literal
literalism
literalist
literally
literalmindedness
literalness
literary

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'literal' (derived from Late Latin 'litteralis', from Latin 'littera' meaning 'letter') plus the adverbial suffix '-ly', originally referring to interpreting biblical texts strictly according to the exact words.

Cite this Entry

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