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Definition of vilely
vilely
/ˈvaɪl.li/
vile · ly
Adjective:vile
vilely Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
10
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
Syllables
2
vilely Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adverb
1
In a morally despicable, wicked, or shameful manner.
Example
"The whistleblowers were treated vilely by the corrupt administration before their claims were finally vindicated."
2
In an extremely unpleasant, repulsive, or wretched way.
Example
"The neglected canal smelled vilely of stagnant water and decaying leaves during the summer heatwave."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for vilely Antonyms
View all antonyms for vilely• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'vile' (derived via Old French from Latin 'vilis', meaning 'cheap, base, or worthless') combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly'.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Vilely. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/vilely