Definition

In a way that is strange or mysterious, often causing unease or fear.

Example

She uncannily predicted the outcome of the game before it even started.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how uncannily similar those two movies are?

I know, right? It's almost like they copied each other.

Exactly! The plot twists were uncannily alike too.

Totally! It makes you wonder if there's more to it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Uncannily → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "canny" (from Scottish origin, meaning shrewd or clever). The word "uncannily" describes something that is not just clever but also eerie or unsettling in its cleverness, often suggesting an unnatural quality.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being combined with 'canny', which means clever or shrewd. This helps you remember that 'uncannily' refers to something that is unsettlingly clever or eerie.

Visually Confused Words