What does scenically mean?
Scenically means in a manner characterized by beautiful, impressive, or picturesque scenery. It is most often used to describe travel along a route with attractive views, or a place that overlooks a landscape. For example, a road may be described as scenically winding when it passes through especially attractive countryside. The word can also mean visually striking more generally, though its usual associations are with natural beauty and panoramic landscapes. Scenically is the adverb formed from scenic, an adjective frequently seen in expressions such as scenic route, scenic view, and scenic landscape. Because it directly conveys an aesthetic judgment, it is more evocative than neutral alternatives such as beautifully, although its focus on appearance or setting may make it less suitable in contexts concerned with practical qualities.
adverbIn a way that is characterized by beautiful or impressive natural scenery. It can also describe a route, viewpoint, or setting that offers scenic attractions.
- In a way that provides beautiful or impressive views of natural scenery.
- In a way that is visually striking or picturesque.
"They drove along the coast road, where the landscape was especially scenic."
"The train travels scenically through forests, lakes, and steep mountain valleys."
"The restored building is striking rather than merely scenic."
The word scenic began on the stage: its root refers to the ancient Greek skēnē, the tent or platform on which performances took place.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does scenically come from?
Scenically was formed from scenic with the adverbial suffix -ly. The adjective scenic comes through French from Latin scenicus, meaning “of the stage” or “theatrical.” Latin scenicus in turn derives from Greek skēnikos, which relates to skēnē, the stage or tent used for dramatic performances. The word's meaning broadened from the theatrical sense to describe beautiful views and picturesque surroundings.
How scenically is actually used
Scenically is commonly used with be or to modify verbs such as travel, drive, and overlook. It generally emphasizes visual beauty, especially natural landscapes, but can also refer to an architecturally striking setting. The adverb is less common in formal writing than the adjective scenic.
Easily confused with scenically
Scenic describes the visual character or beauty of a place, while a scene is a particular setting, event, or division of a play, film, or narrative.