Definition

In a way that is dirty, shabby, or in poor condition.

Example

The dog looked mangily, with matted fur and dirt all over its body.

Conversation

Did you see how that dog was acting in the park?

Yeah, it was running around so mangily like it didn't have a care in the world.

I wonder if it was just playing or if something was wrong with it.

Maybe it just needed a good bath; it looked a bit mangily dirty.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'mangily' originates from the Middle English 'mangily', which means in a mangy or shabby manner. It is derived from 'mangy' (from Old French 'mangy', meaning having mange), which refers to a condition of being shabby or in poor condition. The suffix '-ly' indicates a manner of doing something. Thus, 'mangily' means in a shabby or poor manner.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mangy', which describes something shabby or in poor condition, and remember that 'mangily' means doing something in a shabby way.

Visually Confused Words