Definition

In a way that shows you are looking for something or trying to find an answer.

Example

She looked at him searchingly, hoping to find the truth in his eyes.

Conversation

Did you notice how she looked at him searchingly during the meeting?

Yeah, it seemed like she wanted to ask him something important.

I wonder what she was thinking at that moment.

Maybe she was trying to gauge his reaction to the proposal.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Searchingly → It is formed from "search" (from Old French *cerchier*, meaning to seek or look for) and "-ingly" (a suffix used to form adverbs indicating manner). The word "searchingly" means in a manner that seeks or looks for something with intent or thoroughness.

Memory Tip

Think of the act of 'seeking' ('search') and doing it in a specific way ('-ingly'). This helps you remember that 'searchingly' describes how someone looks for something with purpose.

Visually Confused Words