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Definition of painstakingly

painstakingly

/ˈpeɪnzˌteɪ.kɪŋ.li/
pains · tak · ing · ly
Adjective:painstaking
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painstakingly Lexical Profile

painstakingly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner characterized by extreme care, thoroughness, and diligent attention to detail.

Example

"The art restorer painstakingly cleaned the centuries-old fresco with a tiny brush."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

painlessness
pains
painstaking
painstakingly
paint
paintable
paintball

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 17th century from the adjective 'painstaking' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. The base word derives from the idiom 'to take pains' (meaning to exert great care and effort), where the plural 'pains' retains an older sense of diligent trouble or labor rather than physical suffering.

Cite this Entry

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