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Definition of sullenly

sullenly

/ˈsʌl.ən.li/
sul · len · ly
Adjective:sullen
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sullenly Lexical Profile

sullenly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a bad-tempered, sulky, or gloomily resentful manner.

Example

"The teenager stared sullenly at the floor while his parents lectured him about his grades."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

sulkiness
sulky
sullen
sullenly
sullenness
sully
sulphur-crested cockatoo

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 16th century from the adjective 'sullen' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. The base word 'sullen' derives from Anglo-Norman 'solein', meaning 'lonely' or 'unique', ultimately tracing back to Latin 'solus' ('alone').

Cite this Entry

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