exquisitely
Americanadverb
-
excellently, especially in a way that shows extreme refinement or elegance.
The scenic design is gorgeous, and the show is exquisitely lit.
Under the tree stands a group of exquisitely sculpted Buddhas.
-
to a degree that is exceptional or extraordinary.
String theory suggests that the universe is created by the vibrations of exquisitely tiny superstrings in ten spatial dimensions.
-
to an extreme degree; intensely.
Until that point, I had not heard the details of my students’ exquisitely personal stories of the experience of war.
The ocean swim was truly invigorating, and I felt exquisitely alive.
-
showing keen sensitivity.
The blood-brain barrier is a network that exquisitely controls the movement of cells and molecules between the blood and the fluid that surrounds the brain.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of exquisitely
Explanation
When something is done exquisitely, it's done with beautiful, perfect detail, like a masterfully painted portrait or a beautifully composed symphony. To do something exquisitely means to do it with exceptional beauty and precision. Think of a delicate piece of jewelry crafted with intricate designs, or a dish prepared by a top chef with the finest ingredients. The word comes from the Latin exquisitus, meaning "carefully sought out or chosen." Exquisitely crafted things stand out for their detailed perfection and elegance, such as a finely written poem, a gorgeously decorated room, or a flawlessly executed dance performance.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A twilight stroll through “Carved” at Descanso Gardens is like walking through a Halloween fairy tale, as exquisitely designed pumpkins surround and dazzle us in glowing installations.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 1, 2026
In Mr. Fiennes’s view, “no other French author has written with such intensity and such an exquisitely sharp eye for the natural world, or indeed about the needs and passions of the human one.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 25, 2026
Oh, it’s too rich, it’s exquisitely absurd, little old me buying big important him!
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 15, 2026
This includes exquisitely decorated tombs that offer a unique glimpse into the daily lives, funerary beliefs, artistry and monuments of Egypt’s ordinary people and officials over many centuries.
From Science Daily ● Sep. 10, 2026
Rumor had it that they had furnished the school exquisitely and the students and teachers had access to electronic typewriters.
From "March Forward, Girl" by Melba Pattillo Beals
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
