especially
|es-pe-cial-ly|
B1
/ɪˈspɛʃəli/
singling out
Etymology
Etymology Information
'especially' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'especial,' where 'especial' meant 'particular or noteworthy.'
Historical Evolution
'especial' transformed into the modern English word 'especially' by adding the suffix '-ly' to form an adverb.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'particular or noteworthy,' and over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'singling out one over others.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
used to single out one person, thing, or situation over all others.
She loves all her children, but she is especially fond of her youngest.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35