Definition

In a way that is not emotional or enthusiastic; often used to describe a way of speaking that is serious or matter-of-fact.

Example

He explained the rules of the game dryly, without any excitement.

Conversation

Did you hear Jason's joke about the math test?

Yeah, he delivered it so dryly that I almost missed it!

I know, right? I was expecting something funny, not just a pun.

Exactly! But that's what makes him unique, I guess.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dryly → It is formed from "dry" (from Old English *drȳge*, meaning free from moisture) and "-ly" (a suffix meaning in a manner of). The word "dryly" means in a manner that is free from moisture, often used to describe a lack of emotion or enthusiasm in speech or writing.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'free from moisture' ('dry') and how that can describe a way of speaking that lacks emotion or excitement.

Visually Confused Words