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Desultorily: meaning, definitions and examples

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desultorily

 

[ dΙ›sΙ™lˈtɔːrΙͺli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

manner of speaking

Desultorily refers to speaking or acting in a way that is disconnected or lacking in a coherent sequence. It implies a lack of focus or a tendency to jump from one topic to another without clear direction.

Synonyms

disjointedly, erratically, rambling.

Examples of usage

  • He spoke desultorily, shifting from one subject to another.
  • The conversation was desultorily punctuated by awkward silences.
  • She wrote desultorily, without any clear plan for her essay.

Etymology

The word 'desultorily' originates from the Latin 'desultorius', which means 'leaping down' or 'jumping about'. It stems from 'desultor', referring to a performer who jumped from one horse to another, thus conveying the idea of changing or shifting rapidly without staying focused on one topic. This Latin term, in turn, derives from 'de-' (meaning 'down from') and 'saltare' (to leap). By the late 19th century, 'desultorily' entered the English language, maintaining the original meaning of a disjointed or haphazard manner of conveying thoughts or actions. It is often used in literary contexts to describe dialogue or narrative that lacks cohesiveness.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,614, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.