Definition

In a complete or absolute way; used to emphasize something negative or undesirable.

Example

He was an arrantly dishonest person, always lying to get what he wanted.

Conversation

Did you see that movie everyone's talking about?

Yeah, it was arrantly the worst film I've ever seen!

I couldn't believe how bad it was, right?

Absolutely, I felt like I wasted two hours of my life.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Arrantly is derived from the adjective "arrant" (from Old French *arrant*, meaning 'to be present' or 'to be in a state'), which is often used to emphasize a negative quality. The suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of) is added to form an adverb. Thus, "arrantly" means in a manner that is completely or utterly, often with a negative connotation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'arrant' meaning completely or utterly, and remember that 'arrantly' describes doing something in that complete manner.

Visually Confused Words