Definition

In a very bad or shocking way that is morally wrong or evil.

Example

The crime was committed heinously, leaving the community in shock.

Conversation

Did you hear about that crime that happened downtown?

Yeah, I can't believe someone would act so heinously.

It really makes you wonder about the world we live in.

For sure, it's scary to think such things can happen anywhere.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heinously → It is formed from "heinous" (from Old French *hainous*, meaning hateful or abominable) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "heinously" means in a manner that is hateful or abominable.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'hateful' ('heinous') and how it is done 'in a manner' ('-ly'). This helps you remember that 'heinously' describes actions that are done in a hateful way.

Visually Confused Words