What does infernally mean?
“Infernally” is an emphatic adverb meaning “in an extremely intense, severe, or painful manner.” It derives from “infernal,” which relates to hell or extreme evil, and consequently carries a dark, dramatic, and often humorous coloring. The word can describe physical conditions, as in “the room was infernally hot,” or strengthen complaints about difficulties and annoyances, as in “the system has been infernally slow.” Although it is related to extreme unpleasantness, it can also be used playfully for exaggerated complaints. Its force comes from combining the ordinary idea of intensifying with the vivid image of hellfire, making it more memorable and emotionally charged than a neutral expression such as “extremely.” It is especially familiar in British English but is also understood and used in American English.
adverbIn a very extreme, intense, or hellish manner. It is used for emphatic emphasis, often to express annoyance, frustration, or the severity of a situation.
- In an extremely intense, severe, or painful manner.
- Used as an emphatic intensifier to express strong annoyance, hostility, or exasperation.
"The heat in the kitchen was infernally uncomfortable."
"The trail was infernally steep, and they had to climb it in the midday sun."
"The software has been infernally slow all morning."
“Infernally” is the perfect word for a situation that feels as punishing as hell—though it is dramatic enough to make ordinary discomfort sound like a crisis.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of infernally
“Infernally” was formed in the 17th century by adding the adverbial suffix “-ly” to “infernal.” “Infernal” comes from Latin infernalis, meaning “of or relating to hell,” from infernus, meaning “hell.” The modern word therefore preserves the older religious sense of hell while also being used metaphorically for extreme severity, hostility, or unpleasantness.
Related word forms
How infernally is actually used
Formally written but strongly expressive, with a humorous or hyperbolic tone. It is especially common in British English and is more vivid and dramatic than simply saying “very” or “extremely.”
Easily confused with infernally
“Infernally” means intensely or extremely, often in a negative or hellish sense, whereas “eternally” means forever or for an unlimited duration.
“Infernally” describes an extreme degree, while “internally” means within a person, organization, or system.