Definition

In a weak or small way; lacking strength or importance.

Example

The team performed punily, failing to impress the audience.

Conversation

Did you see how he tried to lift that weight?

Yeah, he did it so punily that I almost laughed.

I know! It looked like he was struggling so much.

Right? He should probably start with lighter weights first.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Punily → It is formed from "puny" (from Middle English *pouny*, meaning small or weak) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "punily" means in a manner that is small or weak.

Memory Tip

Think of 'puny' meaning small or weak, and remember that 'punily' describes doing something in a small or weak manner.

Visually Confused Words