Search Dictionary
Definition of ponderously

ponderously

/ˈpɑːn.dɚ.əs.li/
pon · der · ous · ly
Adjective:ponderous
JUMP TO:

ponderously Lexical Profile

ponderously Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a slow, heavy, and clumsy manner due to great weight or bulk.

Example

"The ancient tortoise moved ponderously across the sandy enclosure toward the shade."

2

In a dull, laborious, or overly solemn manner (especially of speech or writing).

Example

"The lecturer spoke ponderously for two hours, causing several students in the back row to nod off."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ponderously
Antonyms
View all antonyms for ponderously

• Nearby Words

ponderosa pine
ponderosa pine snake
ponderous
ponderously
pondlife
pondweed
pong

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English by adding the adverbial suffix -ly to ponderous, which derives from the Latin ponderosus ('of great weight'), from pondus ('weight').

Cite this Entry

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