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Definition of obtusely

obtusely

/əbˈtuːs.li/
ob · tuse · ly
Adjective:obtuse
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obtusely Lexical Profile

obtusely Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner that is annoyingly slow to understand, insensitive, or deliberately uncomprehending.

Example

"The spokesperson responded obtusely to the reporter's direct questions about the budget deficit."

2

So as to form an obtuse angle (greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees), or with a blunt, rounded end rather than a sharp point.

Example

"In this botanical species, the lower leaves are obtusely angled at the base and rounded at the apex."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for obtusely

• Nearby Words

obtruder
obtrusive
obtuse
obtusely
obtuseness
obverse
obvious

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the adjective 'obtuse' (from Latin 'obtusus', meaning 'blunted' or 'dull', past participle of 'obtundere', 'to beat against') plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

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