Definition

In a way that is very bright and showy, often to the point of being tasteless or overly flashy.

Example

The room was decorated gaudily, with bright colors and excessive ornaments.

Conversation

Did you see the decorations at the party last night?

Yeah, they were all done so gaudily it was overwhelming.

I know, right? I prefer a more subtle approach to decorating.

Same here! Less is definitely more in that case.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gaudily → It is formed from "gaudy" (from Middle English *gaudie*, meaning showy or ostentatious) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "gaudily" means in a showy or ostentatious manner.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'showy' or 'ostentatious' ('gaudy') and remember that 'gaudily' describes doing something in that flashy way.

Visually Confused Words