Definition

In a way that is attractive but has no real value or integrity; superficially appealing.

Example

The advertisement was designed to attract customers meretriciously, focusing on flashy images rather than quality.

Conversation

Did you see that commercial? It was so flashy and meretriciously designed.

Yeah, it seemed more about the visuals than the actual product.

Exactly! I prefer ads that feel more genuine and relatable.

Same here, those flashy ones just make me roll my eyes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Meretriciously → It is formed from "meretricius" (from Latin, meaning of or pertaining to a prostitute) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word describes behavior that is characteristic of or resembles that of a prostitute, often implying something that is gaudy or superficial.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin root 'meretricius' which relates to a prostitute, and remember that 'meretriciously' describes actions done in a superficial or gaudy manner, similar to that behavior.

Visually Confused Words