Wickedly: meaning, definitions and examples

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wickedly

[ˈwɪkɪdli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

adverb describing an action

In a wicked manner; evilly; with bad intent.

Synonyms

evil, malicious, sinister.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
wickedly	Used to describe actions that are morally wrong or evil. It can also be used in a colloquial way to describe something impressive or extreme. The dictator ruled his country wickedly, causing much suffering. That roller coaster ride was wickedly fast!
evil	Used for actions, intentions, or people that are profoundly immoral, cruel, or harmful. This has a very strong negative connotation. The villain in the story had an evil plan to take over the world. They faced an evil force that threatened to destroy their village.
sinister	Used when something gives the impression that it is harmful or evil, often involving dark or mysterious undertones. There was a sinister shadow lurking in the alleyway. His sinister smile made everyone in the room uncomfortable.
malicious	Describes actions or intentions meant to cause harm, suffering, or distress to others. It often implies spitefulness or ill will. She spread malicious rumors about her coworker. The hacker launched a malicious attack on the company's computer systems.

Examples of usage

He smiled wickedly as he watched his plan unfold.
She danced wickedly across the stage, captivating the audience.
The villain laughed wickedly as he revealed his evil scheme.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

adverb describing something impressive or skillful

Extremely well; excellently.

Synonyms

amazingly, brilliantly, superbly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
wickedly	Suitable for describing something done in a mischievous or harmful manner. Often used in a playful or ironic sense. She smiled wickedly after pulling the prank The villain laughed wickedly in the movie
amazingly	Appropriate for expressing astonishment and admiration. Used when something exceeds expectations. She performed amazingly well at the concert The cake turned out amazingly delicious
brilliantly	Best used to describe something done with great intelligence or skill. Implies high praise for cleverness. He solved the puzzle brilliantly The movie was brilliantly directed
superbly	Used to describe something done in an extremely good or impressive manner. It signifies excellence. The team played superbly in the final match The meal was prepared superbly

Examples of usage

She played the piano wickedly, leaving the audience in awe.
He's wickedly talented at solving puzzles.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'wicked' has roots in Old English, originally meaning 'morally bad' but has evolved to also describe something excellent in modern slang.
In the late 19th century, 'wicked' began to be used colloquially in British English to describe anything impressive or excellent.
The adverb 'wickedly' emerged in the 20th century, leaning into the playful connotation while still suggesting a hint of mischief.

Pop Culture

The musical 'Wicked' transformed public perception of concepts like good and evil, showcasing characters who embody both traits.
In many movies, characters referred to as 'wicked' often have a clever twist, using their 'wickedness' to outsmart others.
Popular music often describes talents as 'wickedly good', highlighting remarkable skills with a fun edge.

Psychology

The term 'wicked' in a psychological context can describe behaviors that blend creativity with defiance, often leading to positive outcomes.
Research shows that playful mischief linked to the word can promote creativity, allowing individuals to think outside traditional boundaries.
Positive psychology embraces the playful aspect of being wickedly clever, as it encourages resilience and adaptability in problem-solving.

Literature

Various literary works use 'wickedly' to describe characters who possess both charming and devious traits, engaging readers' interest.
In children's stories, 'wicked' often describes humorous villains who ultimately reveal valuable life lessons, showing the duality of good and evil.
Authors use the adverb to evoke a sense of mischief that makes their work more engaging and relatable, allowing readers to connect with flawed characters.

Language & Slang

'Wicked' as an intensifier is prevalent in various dialects, particularly in British and New England English, showcasing regional language evolution.
In contemporary usage, especially among youth, 'wickedly' often precedes adjectives to amplify enthusiasm, such as 'wickedly fun' or 'wickedly hard.'
The playful use of 'wicked' indicates a cultural shift where words traditionally viewed as negative are reframed to express positive attributes.

Translations

Translations of the word "wickedly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 malvadamente

🇮🇳 दुष्टता से

🇩🇪 bösartig

🇮🇩 jahat

🇺🇦 злочинно

🇵🇱 nikczemnie

🇯🇵 悪意を持って (あくいをもって)

🇫🇷 méchamment

🇪🇸 malvadamente

🇹🇷 kötü niyetle

🇰🇷 악의적으로

🇸🇦 بخبث

🇨🇿 zlomyslně

🇸🇰 zlovestne

🇨🇳 邪恶地 (xié'è de)

🇸🇮 zlobno

🇮🇸 illilega

🇰🇿 зұлымдықпен

🇬🇪 ბოროტულად

🇦🇿 şərtək

🇲🇽 malvadamente

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,638, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
22635 limping
22636 miser
22637 auxin
22638 wickedly
22639 expatriates
22640 overheated
22641 diffidence
...