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originally Meaning & Definition

ə-ˈri-jə-nᵊl-ē

What Does Originally Mean?

Originally is used as an adverb meaning by origin or derivation. It is also used to mean in the beginning.

Originally at a Glance

Part of speechadverb
Pronunciation/ə-ˈri-jə-nᵊl-ē/
Syllables5
Synonymsprimitively, earlier and to begin with
Antonymsfinally, lastly and ultimately
Comparative / superlativemore originally, most originally

Originally Definition (Adverb)

  1. by origin or derivation : inherently
  2. in the beginning : in the first place : initially
  3. in a fresh or original manner

Synonyms of Originally

Originally synonyms and antonyms →

Antonyms of Originally

Originally in a Sentence

Originally, this paper was white, but over the years it has yellowed with age.

They had to think originally to come up with those creative ideas.

we originally planned to go out tonight, but we changed our minds

Word Forms & Grammar

originally

originally (comparative more originally, superlative most originally)

Words That Rhyme With Originally

Origin of Originally

From Middle English originali; equivalent to original +‎ -ly.

First Known Use

14th century

Pronouncing Originally

Originally is pronounced /ə-ˈri-jə-nᵊl-ē/ and has 5 syllables, with the main stress on the second syllable (ri).

Questions People Ask About Originally

What part of speech is originally?

Originally is an adverb.

What is another word for originally?

Words with a similar meaning to originally include primitively, earlier and to begin with. See the full list of originally synonyms and antonyms.

What is the opposite of originally?

The opposite of originally can be expressed with words like finally, lastly and ultimately.

What are the comparative and superlative forms of originally?

The comparative form is more originally and the superlative form is most originally.

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