Definition

In a way that is surprising or shocking, often because it is very large or extreme.

Example

The movie was staggeringly good, leaving the audience in awe.

Conversation

Did you see the staggeringly high scores in the last game?

I know! It was unbelievable how well they played.

I was really surprised by the staggeringly fast pace of the match.

Yeah, it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Staggeringly → It is formed from "stagger" (from Old English *stacgan*, meaning to sway or totter) and the suffix "-ingly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "staggeringly" describes something done in a manner that causes one to sway or be astonished.

Memory Tip

Think of something that makes you 'sway' or feel 'astonished' — that's why 'staggeringly' means done in a way that causes great surprise.

Visually Confused Words