Definition

In a way that is unproductive or lacking in growth; without producing any results or benefits.

Example

The land was barrenly dry, yielding no crops for the farmers.

Conversation

I tried to plant some flowers in the garden, but they all died.

That's unfortunate! Maybe the soil was too barrenly for them.

Yeah, it was pretty dry and lifeless.

Next time, you should try adding some compost to improve it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Barrenly → It is formed from "barren" (from Old French *barain*, meaning unproductive or sterile) and "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "barrenly" means in a manner that is unproductive or lacking in growth.

Memory Tip

Think of 'barren' meaning unproductive, and remember that 'barrenly' describes doing something in an unproductive way.

Visually Confused Words