Definition

In a way that is done automatically or without thinking, often because it has been learned by repetition.

Example

She recited the poem rotely, without any emotion or understanding.

Conversation

I feel like I'm just going through the motions at work lately.

Yeah, sometimes it can feel really rotely, can't it?

Exactly! I miss the excitement of new challenges.

Maybe we should look for projects that spark our interest again.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

This word originates from the adverb 'rote', which comes from Middle English 'rote' (meaning a fixed, mechanical way of doing something) and the suffix '-ly' (meaning in a manner of). The word 'rotely' means in a manner that is mechanical or done by memory without thought.

Memory Tip

Think of doing something in a 'fixed' or 'mechanical' way, as if you are following a routine by memory — that's what 'rotely' means.

Visually Confused Words