What does staringly mean?
Staringly is an adverb meaning in a way that attracts immediate attention because it is conspicuous, obvious, or difficult to overlook. Its best-established use is in the phrase “staringly obvious,” where it intensifies the idea that something can readily be seen or understood. The word can also emphasize other conspicuous qualities, as in “staringly successful,” although that use is less frequent. Its force comes partly from the literal image of someone staring: what is staringly apparent seems to demand attention rather than require careful thought or specialist knowledge. Staringly is therefore more emphatic and literary than plain words such as “clearly” or “obviously,” making it useful for drawing a reader’s focus to a fact, omission, inconsistency, or striking result. In ordinary speech, “obviously” will often be the more natural choice.
adverbIn a way that is so conspicuous as to attract attention, especially when something is obvious or clear.
- In a conspicuously obvious manner; so clearly as to be impossible to overlook.
"The missing details were staringly obvious to everyone except the investigators."
"The discrepancy between the two reports was staringly obvious."
"Her performance was a staringly successful debut in the role."
When a fact seems impossible to overlook, English often reaches for the image of staring directly at the viewer: it is staringly obvious.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does staringly come from?
The adverb was formed in the modern period by adding the suffix -ly to the present participle “staring.” “Staring” comes from the verb “stare,” whose Old English ancestor was “starian,” meaning to look fixedly or gaze.
Related word forms
How staringly is actually used
Chiefly literary or emphatic. It is especially common in the expression “staringly obvious” and is somewhat more dramatic than simply saying “clearly” or “obviously.”
Easily confused with staringly
Staringly describes something conspicuous or impossible to overlook, whereas starkly means sharply or completely, often emphasizing a harsh visual or factual contrast.