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Definition of waspishly
waspishly
/ˈwɑːspɪʃli/
wasp · ish · ly
Adjective:waspish
waspishly Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
12
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
Syllables
3
waspishly Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adverb
1
In a sharply irritable, petulant, or spiteful manner; with a biting or caustic tone.
Example
"The critic replied waspishly when questioned about thefactual errors in his latest review."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for waspishly Antonyms
View all antonyms for waspishlyWord Origin & Etymology
Formed in the 16th century from 'waspish' and the adverbial suffix '-ly', alluding to the quick, painful sting and perceived irritable temperament of the wasp (from Old English 'wæps').
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Waspishly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/waspishly