What does uncannily mean?
“Uncannily” is an adverb meaning in a way that seems mysterious, unnatural, eerie, or beyond ordinary experience. It is also used to describe something that is so strikingly accurate, precise, or familiar that it feels almost impossible. For example, a performer may deliver an uncannily convincing impersonation, or a witness may recall an uncannily precise sequence of events. The word combines the sense of something strange or supernatural with a suggestion of hidden knowledge or insight. Its tone can be unsettling when describing atmosphere, appearance, or coincidence, but it is often complimentary when describing precision, skill, or resemblance. Because it carries a strong implication of strangeness, “uncannily” is more vivid and dramatic than words such as “very” or “remarkably,” and it is especially effective when an ordinary event seems to have an inexplicable significance.
adverbIn a way that seems mysterious, unnatural, or beyond ordinary experience; or so strikingly accurate or precise that it appears almost uncanny.
- In a way that is strange, mysterious, unnatural, or suggestive of the supernatural.
- To a remarkable degree, especially when describing something that is accurate, precise, or lifelike.
"The portrait looked uncannily familiar, as though the subject had been watching from the other side of the canvas."
"The abandoned house had an uncannily calm atmosphere, as if its former occupants had only just stepped outside."
"Despite the unfamiliar setting, she found the room uncannily easy to navigate."
Sometimes the most unsettling compliment is that something is “uncannily accurate.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of uncannily
“Uncannily” was formed from the adjective “uncanny” with the adverbial suffix “-ly.” “Uncanny” developed from “canny,” an adjective meaning shrewd or knowledgeable, with the prefix “un-” contributing the sense of something strange or not quite natural. The related modern meaning of “canny,” as in shrewd or practical, preserves the older idea of being perceptive.
How uncannily is actually used
The word is common in both British and American English. It can suggest the supernatural or something unsettling, but it is also widely used figuratively for startlingly precise accuracy, resemblance, or familiarity. Its intensifying effect is often stronger than that of “strangely” alone.
Easily confused with uncannily
“Uncanny” is an adjective meaning eerie, mysterious, or strangely familiar, whereas “uncannily” is the adverb describing how something is done or experienced.