Definition

In a way that shows you are awake and alert, not sleeping.

Example

She listened wakefully to the sounds of the night.

Conversation

I couldn't sleep at all last night; I was so wakefully tossing and turning.

That sounds rough! Did you try any relaxation techniques?

Yeah, I listened to music, but I just stayed wakefully aware of everything around me.

Maybe you should try some meditation next time; it might help you relax.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Wakefully → It is formed from "wake" (from Old English *wacan*, meaning to become awake or to arise) and "-fully" (meaning in a manner full of). The word "wakefully" means in a manner that is full of wakefulness or alertness.

Memory Tip

Think of being fully awake and alert — 'wake' means to arise, and '-fully' means in a manner full of.

Visually Confused Words