adv

terminally

Terminally (adv) means In a way that will end in death. Example: “She has been terminally ill for several months.”

adv

In a way that will end in death.

"She has been terminally ill for several months."

To an extreme or hopeless degree (informal, exaggerated use).

"He's terminally boring at parties."

How to use terminally

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishMostly used in "terminally ill," meaning an illness that will end in death; also used loosely for "hopelessly" or "chronically."

Common pairings

terminally ill terminally uncool

Word forms

more terminally comparative, most terminally superlative

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She has been _____ ill for several months.

Etymology

From terminal + the adverb-forming suffix -ly.

Rhymes for terminally

ally bally sally Wally dally rally tally pally really locally usually equally

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Frequently asked questions

What does “terminally” mean?

The word “terminally” means in a way that will end in death. In plain terms, mostly used in "terminally ill," meaning an illness that will end in death; also used loosely for "hopelessly" or "chronically.".

How do you use “terminally” in a sentence?

Here is “terminally” used in a sentence: “She has been terminally ill for several months.”

What part of speech is “terminally”?

“Terminally” is an adverb.

How many meanings does “terminally” have?

“Terminally” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in a way that will end in death.