Importunately: meaning, definitions and examples
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importunately
[ ɪmˈpɔːtʃənətli ]
persistent request
Importunately means in an overly persistent or demanding manner; often referring to requests or demands that are made so insistently that they become annoying or troublesome. It implies a lack of consideration for the other person's situation, continuing to press for a favor or response despite potential resistance.
Synonyms
demandingly, importune, insistently
Examples of usage
- He importunately begged for help with his project.
- The children importunately asked for more candy.
- She importunately called every day for an update.
Etymology
The word 'importunately' traces its roots back to Latin. It is derived from 'importunus', which means 'unwelcome' or 'unsuitable', ultimately brought over through Middle French 'importun'. The Latin 'importunus' breaks down further into 'in-' meaning 'not', and 'portunus', which means 'opportune' or 'convenient'. Over the centuries, the meaning evolved in English to express not just inconvenience but also a sense of annoyance due to excessive insistence. The adverbial form, 'importunately', began to emerge in English usage around the 15th century, reflecting the sentiment of bothersomely pressing a point or request, often without regard for the comfort of others involved.