What does spicily mean?
Spicily is an adverb meaning “with strong spice or seasoning” and, figuratively, “in a bold, lively, or provocative manner.” In its literal sense, it describes food that has a pronounced spicy flavour or heat: “The stew was served spicily seasoned.” In figurative use, it often suggests that something is daring, unconventional, or excitingly provocative: “The comedy was spicily written.” The word derives from the adjective spicy, which comes from spice. It is less common than spicy itself and is especially associated with informal or descriptive writing, though it can also be used for stylistic emphasis in journalism and reviews.
adverbIn a spicy or strongly flavoured manner; figuratively, in a lively, exciting, or daring way.
- In a manner characterized by strong spices or seasoning.
- In a lively, exciting, daring, or provocative manner.
"The performance was spicily unconventional and immediately captured the audience's attention."
"The curry was served spicily hot, with a rich tomato sauce."
"She delivered the controversial proposal spicily and with undeniable confidence."
The word can describe both a meal with a fiery kick and an idea that is bold enough to be called spicy.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spicily come from?
Spicily is formed from the adjective spicy with the adverbial suffix -ly. Spicy in turn developed from the noun spice, which comes through Old French from the Latin species, meaning “kind” or “sort,” originally referring to kinds of goods or ingredients. The modern sense of spice as a strongly flavoured seasoning developed over time, while the adjective spicy acquired figurative meanings such as “bold” or “exciting.” The adverb preserves both the culinary and figurative associations of its base word.
How spicily is actually used
Spicily is relatively uncommon in formal writing. Its figurative use is often informal and conveys intensity, boldness, or a slightly provocative quality.
Easily confused with spicily
As an adverb, spicily describes the manner of being spicy or lively; it is not a variant spelling of spice or spicy.