Definition

In a way that is silly or lacking in meaning; foolishly.

Example

He spoke inanely during the meeting, making everyone roll their eyes.

Conversation

Did you hear what she said at the meeting?

Yeah, it was pretty inanely silly, wasn't it?

I can't believe she thought that would be a good idea.

Right? Sometimes I wonder if she just likes to talk for the sake of it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inanely → It is formed from "inanis" (from Latin, meaning empty or void) and the adverbial suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "inanely" means in a manner that is empty or lacking in sense.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'empty' ('inanis') and done 'in a manner' ('-ly') — that's why inanely means doing something in a senseless or empty way.

Visually Confused Words