Exceedingly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exceedingly

[ɪkˈsiːdɪŋli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

incredibly

Extremely; to an unusual degree.

Synonyms

exceptionally, extraordinarily, extremely.

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Word Description / Examples
exceedingly

This word is used to emphasize a high degree or level of something, often in a formal or literary context.

  • The cake was exceedingly delicious
  • She was exceedingly kind to everyone
extremely

This word is best used in everyday situations to indicate a very high degree of something, without needing a formal context.

  • I'm extremely tired after the long trip
  • The weather was extremely cold
exceptionally

This word should be used to indicate something or someone that stands out or is above average, often in a positive sense.

  • She is an exceptionally talented musician
  • His performance was exceptionally good
extraordinarily

Employ this word when describing something that is beyond what is ordinary or usual, often with a sense of amazement or admiration.

  • He accomplished the task extraordinarily fast
  • The view from the mountain was extraordinarily beautiful

Examples of usage

  • The view from the top of the mountain was exceedingly beautiful.
  • She was exceedingly grateful for all the help.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Used frequently in Victorian literature to emphasize extreme sentiments, such as love and despair.
  • Authors like Jane Austen and Charles Dickens often employed this word to add dramatic effect to their characters' emotions.
  • The word can intensify descriptions, making them more vivid for readers.

Science

  • In scientific contexts, 'exceedingly' may describe quantities that surpass normal limits, like exceedingly high temperatures in climate change studies.
  • In biology, an organism may be described as exceedingly adaptable when it thrives in various environments.
  • It's often used in research to highlight results that are significantly beyond expectations.

Psychology

  • Exceedingly positive reinforcement in behavioral psychology can lead to more motivated individuals.
  • Exceedingly negative experiences can have lasting psychological effects, illustrating the importance of mental health support.
  • The word helps convey the intensity of emotions, such as exceedingly high stress levels during exams.

Pop Culture

  • Catchphrases from movies or shows often highlight 'exceedingly' to create a comedic or dramatic emphasis.
  • In music lyrics, it often amplifies feelings of love or passion, as in expressions of being exceedingly in love.
  • Popular reality competitions frequently use the term to describe the extreme talents of contestants.

Origin of 'exceedingly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'excedinge', which means to go beyond.
  • It combines the prefix 'ex-', meaning 'out', and 'cedere', a Latin verb meaning 'to go'.
  • The '-ly' suffix turns the word into an adverb, showing how something is done.

The word 'exceedingly' originated from the Middle English word 'excedingli', which is derived from the Old French word 'exceder' meaning 'to go beyond'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. Over time, 'exceedingly' has become a popular adverb to express a high degree or intensity of something.


See also: exceedable, exceeding.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,992, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.