Definition

In a way that is very overwhelming or disheartening, often causing a sense of defeat or discouragement.

Example

The team's crushingly defeat left them feeling hopeless about the season.

Conversation

Did you see the game last night?

Yeah, it was crushingly disappointing for our team.

I know! I thought they might actually win this time.

Same here, but the other team just dominated.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Crushingly → It is formed from "crush" (from Old French *crushier*, meaning to press or squeeze) and "-ingly" (a suffix used to form adverbs indicating manner). The word "crushingly" means in a manner that presses down heavily or overwhelmingly.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of 'pressing down' ('crush') and how it can be done 'in a manner' ('-ingly') that feels overwhelming.

Visually Confused Words