What does stationarily mean?
Stationarily means in a stationary manner, especially without moving from a particular position. It is used to emphasize that an object, person, or camera remains fixed while other things may be happening around it. The word is relatively uncommon and has a formal, precise, sometimes technical tone, so everyday speakers are more likely to choose “motionlessly,” “without moving,” or “still.” A related distinction is important in spelling: “stationarily” is an adverb, “stationary” is an adjective meaning fixed or not moving, and “stationery” means writing materials. The adverb derives from the same Latin root as station, emphasizing the original sense of standing or remaining in one place. It is especially useful in descriptions involving instruments, vehicles, cameras, or people whose exact position is significant.
adverbIn a stationary manner; without moving or changing position.
- In a fixed position or without movement.
"The camera remained stationarily aimed at the doorway while the storm passed."
"The drone hovered stationarily above the field."
"For several seconds, the swimmers remained stationarily at the wall."
From the Latin for “standing,” this quietly formal word means that something holds its position while everything around it may change.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does stationarily come from?
Stationarily is formed from stationary with the adverbial suffix -ly. Stationary comes through French from Latin stationarius, meaning “standing still” or “remaining in place,” and ultimately from stāre, “to stand.” The same Latin root underlies words such as station, statue, stature, and statuary.
Related word forms
How stationarily is actually used
This adverb is relatively uncommon and sounds formal or technical. In most everyday contexts, “without moving,” “motionlessly,” or simply “still” will sound more natural.
Easily confused with stationarily
Stationarily means without moving, whereas stationery refers to writing materials such as paper and pens.