aurally
UK[ˈɔːrəli]US[ˈɔːrəli]
adv
In a way that relates to the ear or the sense of hearing.
Morpheme Breakdown
aural
ly
aural
relating to the ear
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
The word "aurally" is a modern English formation built upon the adjective "aural," which entered the language in the mid-19th century. "Aural" itself derives from the Latin noun auris, meaning "ear," a term with deep roots in Proto-Indo-European, likely from the root h₂ṓws-. The suffix "-ly" is of Germanic origin, used in Old English as "-lice" to create adverbs. Therefore, "aurally" literally and logically means "in a manner pertaining to the ear," directly describing actions or perceptions involving the sense of hearing, as opposed to the visual sense.
Analysis
Structure: aural (relating to the ear) + ly (adverb suffix)
- aural: From Latin auris (ear). This root forms the adjective meaning "of or relating to the ear."
- ly: A native English suffix forming adverbs from adjectives, indicating manner or quality.
Examples
The instructions were presented aurally, so the visually impaired students could follow along easily.
Some people learn languages more effectively through visually presented material, while others prefer to learn aurally.
The composer intended the piece to be experienced aurally, focusing on the interplay of sounds rather than any visual spectacle.