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Definition of tartly
tartly
/ˈtɑːrt.li/
tart · ly
Adjective:tart
tartly Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
9
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
Syllables
2
tartly Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adverb
1
In a sharp, cutting, or sarcastic manner, especially in speech or expression.
Example
"She replied tartly to the reporter's intrusive question about her private life."
2
With a sharp, sour, or acidic taste.
Example
"The wild cranberries were tartly flavored with just a hint of natural sweetness."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for tartly Antonyms
View all antonyms for tartly• Rhymes for tartly
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English teartlice ('sharply, severely'), derived from the adjective teart ('sharp, severe, sour') and the adverbial suffix -lice.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tartly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tartly