Definition

In a very unhappy or unfortunate way.

Example

She wretchedly accepted her defeat in the competition.

Conversation

I felt wretchedly tired after that long meeting today.

I know what you mean; those meetings can really drain you.

Right? I can't believe how wretchedly boring some of them are.

Totally! They should make them shorter or more engaging.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Wretchedly → It is formed from "wretched" (from Old English *wreċċed*, meaning afflicted or miserable) and "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "wretchedly" means in a manner that is miserable or afflicted.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is feeling very miserable or afflicted ('wretched') and how they might act or feel in that state — that's why 'wretchedly' means to do something in a miserable way.

Visually Confused Words