Definition

In a way that is cheap, showy, or of poor quality; lacking in good taste.

Example

The decorations were arranged tawdrily, making the event look less elegant.

Conversation

Did you see that new show?

Yeah, I did! But I thought it was done tawdrily.

I agree, the plot twists felt so cheap and predictable.

Exactly! It really could have been much better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tawdrily → The word 'tawdry' originates from the phrase 'Tawdry lace', which is derived from 'Saint Audrey's lace' (from Old English *Æðelþryð*, meaning noble strength), referring to cheap or gaudy lace sold at a fair in honor of Saint Audrey. The suffix '-ly' indicates a manner or quality. Thus, 'tawdrily' means in a gaudy or cheap manner.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tawdry' as something that is cheap or gaudy, and the '-ly' means in that manner. So, tawdrily describes something done in a cheap or showy way.

Visually Confused Words