What does growlingly mean?
Growlingly is an adverb meaning in the manner of a growl. It describes a low, rumbling or guttural way of speaking, often suggesting that the speaker is displeased, stern, intimidating or simply characteristically gruff. The word can also carry a warmer meaning in contexts where the growl is playful or affectionate, such as when a dog appears to complain without genuinely threatening anyone. It is especially useful in literary and descriptive writing because it conveys both a sound and an attitude: the voice is not merely loud, but rough and expressive. Growlingly should be distinguished from growling, which is normally an adjective or participle. The adverb is uncommon in ordinary conversation, so its presence tends to make a sentence sound vivid, stylized or mildly humorous.
adverbIn the manner of a growl; with a low, rumbling, gruff or threatening sound. It can describe a voice that conveys displeasure, irritation or menace, or occasionally playful affection.
- In the manner of a growl, with a low, rumbling or guttural sound.
"The dog looked up at him growlingly, as if questioning his motives."
"He muttered growlingly under his breath as he turned away."
"The old dog padded toward her, growlingly but without real anger."
Growlingly is the word for when a low, rumbling voice makes a point that sounds less friendly than it perhaps means.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does growlingly come from?
Growlingly is an English formation based on the present participle growling, with the adverbial suffix -ly. The base verb growl belongs to English vocabulary and refers to a low, rumbling vocal sound, historically associated with animals and, in human use, displeasure or threat. The related noun growler is likewise formed from the same base.
How growlingly is actually used
This is a relatively uncommon literary or descriptive adverb. It often suggests a mixture of irritation, gruffness and physical power, although the context may make the growling affectionate or playful.
Easily confused with growlingly
Growling is an adjective or participle describing a sound or someone making such a sound, whereas growlingly is an adverb describing the manner of a growl.