Utterly

Definition

Utterly refers to being in an extreme degree or to the greatest possible extent.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈʌtərli/
• Respelling: UT-er-lee (with "UT" as in "but," "er" as a schwa sound like the 'er' in "water," and "lee" as in "lee")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈʌtəli/
• Respelling: UT-uh-lee (with "UT" similar to "but," "uh" as a schwa sound like the 'a' in "sofa," and "lee" as in "lee")

In both dialects, the word "utterly" has a similar pronunciation, with the primary difference being the pronunciation of the middle syllable, which is a schwa sound. In American English, this sound can be more like "er," while in British English, it's typically a softer "uh." The first and last syllables are pronounced similarly in both dialects.

Etymology

The term "utterly" originates from the Old English word "ūtor", which means "outer". Over time, "utter" evolved to mean "complete" or "absolute", with "utterly" taking on the meaning of "completely" or "absolutely".

Derivatives

• Utter
• Utterance
• Uttered
• Uttering
• Utterable

Synonyms

• Completely
• Absolutely
• Totally

Antonyms

• Partially
• Barely
• Slightly

Usage

• "She was utterly devastated by the news."
• "The movie was utterly captivating from start to finish."

Related Terms

• Uttermost
• Outright
• Entirely
• Wholly
• Fully

Detailed Definition

Adverb

• Completely and Without Qualification: Used to emphasize the complete extent or degree of something.
• Example: The painting was utterly beautiful, leaving everyone in awe.

• Absolutely: Without any reservations, restrictions, or deviations.
• Example: The argument was utterly pointless, leading to no resolution.