Definition

In a manner that shows tiredness or boredom, often by yawning.

Example

She listened yawningly to the long lecture about history.

Conversation

I stayed up too late last night, and now I feel yawningly tired.

Same here! I could barely keep my eyes open during class.

I know, right? It was so hard not to start yawningly in the middle of the lecture.

We should both get to bed earlier tonight!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Yawningly → It is formed from "yawn" (from Old English *geonian*, meaning to open the mouth wide) and "-ly" (a suffix meaning in a manner of). The word "yawningly" describes doing something in a manner that resembles yawning, often indicating boredom or tiredness.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of 'opening your mouth wide' ('yawn') and how doing something 'in that manner' ('-ly') suggests a sense of boredom or tiredness.

Visually Confused Words