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Definition of tenuously

tenuously

/ˈtɛn.ju.əs.li/
ten · u · ous · ly
Adjective:tenuous
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tenuously Lexical Profile

tenuously Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a weak, fragile, or insubstantial manner; with only a slight, precarious, or unconvincing connection or basis.

Example

"The two historical events are only tenuously connected by a few coincidental dates."

2

In a physically thin, slender, or rarefied form or state.

Example

"High in the upper atmosphere, the gases are spread so tenuously that they offer almost no resistance."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for tenuously

• Nearby Words

tentlike
tentpole
tenuous
tenuously
tenure
tenured
tepary bean

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the adjective tenuous, which comes from Latin tenuis meaning 'thin, slender, or fine,' ultimately from the Proto-Indo-European root *ten- ('to stretch').

Cite this Entry

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