Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Preciously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🌸
Add to dictionary

preciously

[prɪˈsɛʃəsli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

manner of doing

Preciously is an adverb that describes doing something with great care, attention, or affection. It often implies a sense of value or importance associated with the action. This word can indicate that something is being treated with a sense of esteem or cherished significance. It is typically used in contexts where the quality of care or consideration is highlighted.

Synonyms

affectionately, carefully, lovingly, tenderly.

Examples of usage

  • She handled the antique vase preciously.
  • The children were taught to treat their pets preciously.
  • He spoke to her preciously, showing his deep feelings.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that objects we perceive as precious can influence our emotions and behaviors, enhancing feelings of attachment.
  • Stronger emotional connections to precious items can lead to nostalgia, recalling happy memories associated with those items.
  • People tend to treat important relationships or cherished memories as precious, reflecting the human need for connection.

Pop Culture

  • In film, the term is often used to describe characters or items that are essential to the plot, evoking strong emotions from the audience.
  • Songs and literature frequently explore themes of valuing love or memories, often using 'precious' to express that sentiment.
  • In fantasy genres, precious objects like rings or gems often serve as pivotal plot devices, symbolizing power and importance.

Art

  • Artworks titled 'Precious' often explore themes of value and importance, highlighting the fragility of beauty and connections.
  • The use of color and light in portrayals of precious objects in paintings can evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia.
  • Contemporary artists often challenge the conventional meanings of preciousness by juxtaposing valuable materials with everyday items.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, specific items (like heirlooms) are viewed as precious, carrying emotional and familial importance across generations.
  • Phraseology like 'precious moments' emphasizes time spent with loved ones, stressing the value of relationships over material items.
  • Cultural rituals often involve precious objects, such as wedding rings or family treasures, symbolizing commitment and heritage.

Origin of 'preciously'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'preciousus', meaning valuable or esteemed, reflecting its importance.
  • In English, 'precious' dates back to the 14th century, while the '-ly' suffix was added later to form adverbs.
  • Initially, 'precious' referred to objects, before expanding to emotions and relationships, highlighting deeper meanings.

The word 'preciously' is derived from the Middle English 'precious', which came from the Old French 'precieux' and ultimately from the Latin 'preciosus', meaning 'costly, esteemed, valuable'. The use of 'preciously' as an adverb emerged in the late 14th century, aligning with the adjective's introduction into the English vocabulary. The evolution of its meaning highlights the increasing appreciation of things deemed valuable, both materially and emotionally. Over the centuries, 'preciously' has been used in literature and everyday language to convey a sense of care or preciousness in actions and sentiments. Its connotation emphasizes an intimate relationship to the subject, showing that not only is the object valuable, but the manner in which it is treated reflects that intrinsic worth.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,662, 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.