Definition

In a way that shows approval or agreement.

Example

She nodded approvingly when she heard the good news.

Conversation

Did you see how she presented her project today?

Yes, I thought it was really impressive!

I noticed the teacher nodded approvingly during her presentation.

That definitely shows she did a great job!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Approvingly → It is formed from "approve" (from Old French *aprover*, meaning to test or prove) and "-ingly" (a suffix used to form adverbs indicating manner). The word "approvingly" means in a manner that shows approval or agreement.

Memory Tip

Think of someone showing they 'approve' of something, and the '-ingly' tells us how they are doing it — in a way that expresses approval.

Visually Confused Words