adverb
coolly
KOOL-lee
Coolly (adverb) means In a calm, composed, or unflustered manner. Example: “She coolly explained why the deadline had been missed.”
adverb
1
In a calm, composed, or unflustered manner.
"She coolly explained why the deadline had been missed."
"He coolly stepped over the broken glass without a word."
2
In a distant or unfriendly manner.
"They greeted the newcomer rather coolly."
How to use coolly
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDoing something calmly, or (in a different context) doing it in a distant, unwelcoming way.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "cooly," a rare alternate spelling of the noun coolie — "coolly" is always the adverb.
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more coolly
- Superlative
- most coolly
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ explained why the deadline had been missed.
Etymology
Formed from the adjective cool plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly.
Synonyms
View more →
nervelessly
nonchalantly
Related words
Rhymes for coolly
See all rhymes for coolly →Frequently asked questions
What does “coolly” mean?
The word “coolly” means in a calm, composed, or unflustered manner. In plain terms, doing something calmly, or (in a different context) doing it in a distant, unwelcoming way.
How do you pronounce “coolly”?
“Coolly” is pronounced KOOL-lee (/ˈkuːl.li/ in IPA).
How do you use “coolly” in a sentence?
Here is “coolly” used in a sentence: “She coolly explained why the deadline had been missed.”
What part of speech is “coolly”?
“Coolly” is an adverb.
How many meanings does “coolly” have?
“Coolly” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in a calm, composed, or unflustered manner.
