Archly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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archly
[หรคrklฤ ]
Definition
manner of speaking
Archly is used to describe a manner of speaking or behaving that is playful, mischievous, or teasing. It often implies a level of cleverness or cunning in the way something is said or done. The term can indicate a certain slyness or a deliberate effort to provoke a response, often with a hint of irony or sarcasm. When someone speaks archly, they may be suggesting something beneath the surface, inviting others to read between the lines.
Synonyms
cunningly, playfully, slyly, teasingly.
Examples of usage
- She smiled archly at the joke.
- He delivered his criticism archly, leaving everyone unsure of his true feelings.
- The comment was made archly, hinting at something deeper.
- They exchanged archly glances during the meeting.
Translations
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Origin of 'archly'
The word 'archly' derives from the adjective 'arch', which itself comes from the Middle English word 'arche', meaning 'chief' or 'principal'. The term has evolved to take on connotations of cunningness and playfulness. This transformation is reflected in its adverbial form, 'archly', which suggests a behavior marked by a sense of knowingness or playfulness that may have deeper implications. The usage of 'archly' has been documented in literature since the late 19th century, illustrating how writers have embraced its nuance to convey characters with wit or a mischievous edge. Over time, it has remained a descriptive term, often employed in literary contexts to enhance character dialogue or narrative tone.