Definition

In a manner that is not holy or morally right; wickedly.

Example

He acted unholily, showing no regard for the rules.

Conversation

Did you hear the story about the ghost in the old house?

Yeah, they say it haunts the place unholily at night.

I can't believe people actually claim to see it!

I know, right? It sounds like something out of a horror movie.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unholily → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "holy" (from Old English "halig", meaning sacred or consecrated) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "unholily" means in a manner that is not sacred or consecrated.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'holy' to remember that 'unholily' means acting in a way that is not sacred.

Visually Confused Words