What does sulkily mean?
Sulkily is an adverb describing the manner in which someone behaves when they are sulking: silently, moodily, and with a degree of resentment or hurt. It suggests a withdrawal from communication or engagement, often because a person wants attention or is dissatisfied with how something has gone. The word is commonly used for children, couples, and informal social situations, where it conveys both displeasure and immaturity. For example, a character might turn away sulkily, ignore a question, or refuse to join a conversation. Although it can describe a temporary reaction, “sulkily” should generally be reserved for behavior that is conspicuous enough to be noticed. The related adjective is “sulky,” and the basic verb is “sulk.”
adverbIn a sulking manner; with a sullen or resentful unwillingness to engage with others.
- In the manner of one who is sulking; sullenly or resentfully.
"He turned away sulkily when she tried to apologize."
"The child sulkily refused to answer the question."
"She responded sulkily, making it clear that she was not ready to discuss the matter."
Sulkily captures the particular silence of someone who may be upset but is communicating their displeasure through withdrawal and moodiness.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sulkily come from?
The adverb “sulkily” was formed in English from the verb “sulk” with the adverbial suffix “-ly.” “Sulk” is an English verb meaning to be sullen or silently resentful, and “sulky” is a related adjective describing the same kind of mood or behavior. The resulting adverb has followed the meanings of its base word in modern usage.
Related word forms
How sulkily is actually used
Usually informal and negative in tone. It describes behavior that is withdrawn, moody, and often mildly self-defeating, especially in interpersonal or childlike contexts.