What does roundedly mean?
Roundedly is an uncommon adverb meaning in a rounded manner. It describes an action, shape, or movement as having rounded contours or following a circular form rather than proceeding in sharp, straight, or angular ways. For example, one might say that a piece of pottery curves roundedly into its base, or that a structure blends roundedly with the landscape. The word is chiefly useful in descriptive, artistic, architectural, or design-related prose, where its explicit reference to shape may be helpful. In ordinary conversation, it can sound affected or overly formal, so speakers will often prefer an expression such as 'in a curved way,' 'with rounded edges,' or a more precise description. It should not be confused with roundly, an established adverb meaning frankly or emphatically.
adverbIn a rounded manner; with rounded contours or a circular form.
- In a rounded manner; with rounded contours or a circular form.
"The bowl has a broad base that curves roundedly into its sides."
"The edges of the enclosure curve roundedly toward the centre."
"She rounded the clay roundedly before placing it on the wheel."
Add the adverb suffix -ly to an adjective ending in -ed, and a shape becomes a manner of doing something.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does roundedly come from?
Roundedly is formed from the adjective rounded with the adverb-forming suffix -ly. Rounded in turn comes from round, an adjective and verb associated with circular forms and curving movement. The resulting adverb preserves the adjective's sense of shape while making it describe the manner of an action.
Related word forms
How roundedly is actually used
This is an uncommon, formal word. In most everyday contexts, a phrase such as 'in a rounded manner' or a more specific description is clearer.
Easily confused with roundedly
Roundedly describes something done with rounded contours, whereas roundly means frankly, directly, or emphatically.