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Definition of sincerely

sincerely

/sɪnˈsɪər.li/
sin · cere · ly
Adjective:sincere
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sincerely Lexical Profile

sincerely Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a genuine, honest, or heartfelt manner, free from pretense, deceit, or hypocrisy.

Example

"She sincerely apologized for the misunderstanding and offered to correct the mistake immediately."

2

Used as a polite, conventional formula to conclude a formal or business letter before the sender's signature.

Example

"Please review the attached contract at your earliest convenience; Sincerely, Eleanor Vance."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for sincerely
Antonyms
View all antonyms for sincerely

Word Nuance & Usage

In traditional British English correspondence, "Yours sincerely" is used when the recipient is addressed by name (e.g., "Dear Mr. Smith"), whereas "Yours faithfully" is used when the recipient's name is unknown (e.g., "Dear Sir or Madam"). In American English, "Sincerely" is widely used as a standard formal closing regardless of the salutation.

• Rhymes for sincerely

• Nearby Words

sinbin
since
sincere
sincerely
sincereness
sincerity
sinclair

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 16th century from the adjective 'sincere' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly', tracing back to the Latin 'sincerus' meaning 'clean, pure, sound, or unspoiled'. A popular folk etymology claiming it derives from 'sine cera' ('without wax', allegedly referring to unpatched marble) is historically unfounded.

Cite this Entry

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