VocabDictionary

curiously

/ˈkjʊr.i.əs.li/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adverb

In a way that shows a desire to learn or know about something.

Example Sentences:
  • “She looked curiously at the strange package left on her doorstep.”
  • “The children stared curiously at the street performer.”
2.adverb

In a strange, unusual, or unexpected manner.

Example Sentences:
  • “The engine was behaving curiously, making a sound I had never heard before.”
  • “Curiously, the shop was closed on the busiest day of the week.”
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “curiously”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'curious,' which comes from the Old French 'curieus,' ultimately from the Latin 'curiosus' (careful, diligent, inquisitive), related to 'cura' (care). The suffix '-ly' was added to form the adverbial state of being inquisitive or strange.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a cat (curious) acting in a way that is 'curiously' strange.

Frequently Asked Questions About “curiously”

1. What is the meaning of “curiously” in English?

In English, curiously (adverb) is defined as: “In a way that shows a desire to learn or know about something.”.

2. How do you use “curiously” in a sentence?

“She looked curiously at the strange package left on her doorstep.”

3. What are English synonyms of “curiously”?

Common synonyms include:inquisitively,strangely,oddly,peculiarly

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “curiously”?

Derived from the Middle English 'curious,' which comes from the Old French 'curieus,' ultimately from the Latin 'curiosus' (careful, diligent, inquisitive), related to 'cura' (care). The suffix '-ly' was added to form the adverbial state of being inquisitive or strange.