musically
UK[ˈmjuːzɪkli]US[ˈmjuːzɪkli]
adv
In a way that relates to music or is pleasing to the ear.
adv
In a way that shows skill or understanding in music.
Morpheme Breakdown
music
al
ly
music
performing art of sound
al
adjective suffix
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
The word 'musically' is built upon the ancient Greek concept of mousikē, which encompassed all arts presided over by the Muses, including poetry and dance, but became narrowly associated with the art of sound. The Latin suffix -ālis was attached to form the adjective 'musical', denoting anything pertaining to this art form. Finally, the ubiquitous Germanic adverbial suffix -ly was appended, transforming it to describe an action performed in a manner relating to or characteristic of music. Thus, the term evolved from a broad Greco-Roman idea of artistic inspiration to a precise English modifier describing sonic quality or proficiency.
Analysis
Structure: music (performing art of sound) + al (adjective suffix) + ly (adverb suffix)
- music: From Greek mousikē (tekhnē) "(art) of the Muses", via Latin musica and Old French musique. Functions as the core noun root.
- al: A Latin-derived suffix (-ālis) used to form adjectives meaning "of, relating to, or characterized by".
- ly: An Old English-derived suffix (-līce) used to form adverbs from adjectives, meaning "in a specified manner".
Examples
She is musically gifted and plays three instruments.
The dialogue in the film is musically rhythmic and poetic.
While not a professional, he appreciates and critiques performances musically.