Adverb

Definition

The noun "adverb" refers to a word that modifies or qualifies a verb, adjective, another adverb, or an entire sentence, typically expressing manner, time, place, degree, frequency, or certainty.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˈæd.vɜːrb/
• Respelling: AD-vurb

British English

• IPA: /ˈæd.vɜːb/
• Respelling: AD-vub

Etymology

From Latin adverbium “that which is added to a verb,” from ad- “to” + verbum “word.” Entered English in the late 14th century.

Derivatives

• Adverbial (adjective)
• Adverbially (adverb)

Synonyms

• Modifier
• Qualifier
• Adverbial

Antonyms

• Adjective

Usage

"Adverb" appears in discussions of grammar and style. Examples: "He spoke softly," and "They arrived early."

Related Terms

• Adjective: A word that modifies a noun.
• Modifier: A word that alters or qualifies another.
• Adverbial: A phrase or clause functioning as an adverb.
• Part of speech: A category of words with similar grammatical properties.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A word that modifies a verb, adjective, other adverb, or entire sentence: Expresses manner, place, time, degree, frequency, or certainty.
  • Example: "She sang beautifully."
• The grammatical category of such words: The class of words that function as adverbs in a language.
  • Example: "'They left early,' where 'early' is an adverb."