historically

American  

[hi-stawr-ik-lee, -stor-] / hɪˈstɔr ɪk li, -ˈstɒr- /

adverb

1. in the past, especially typically or routinely.

   Although historically very active as a volunteer, he’s had to cut back since his stroke.

2. in a way that relates to significant past events, especially as chronicled in an accepted narrative.

   Only the naive, gullible, and historically ignorant will believe this nonsense.

   Make sure your argument is historically accurate.

3. in a way or to a degree that is particularly notable or unique in history or has significantly affected the development of past events.

   This is the time to sell a business quickly and easily, while interest rates are still historically low.

4. in a way that is based on or reconstructed from an event, custom, style, etc., in the past.

   The film historically reenacts the 442nd Regiment's triumphant rescue of the 36th Texas Division in the Vosges Mountains.

5. in a way that involves life or existence in the real world, as opposed to legend, myth, or fiction.

   Many of the stories may not be historically true, but they are nonetheless ethically true.

6. in a way that involves comparing several periods of development of a thing.

   Each institution, such as family, education, or market, can be studied historically to see how it has evolved over time.

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Other Word Forms

• antihistorically adverb
• nonhistorically adverb
• pseudohistorically adverb
• quasi-historically adverb
• semihistorically adverb
• superhistorically adverb
• unhistorically adverb

Etymology

Origin of historically

First recorded in 1530–40; historical ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

It commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, and is historically a day of sorrow, fasting, and reflection.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

“Fraud historically does not get the attention it deserves, so I’m glad to see a national spotlight on this pervasive problem,” Davis said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

The Texan artist revives the old-time western song on this appealing and historically minded album of vintage verse set to music.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

“This is going to be the first boutique, high-end luxury townhome community in Hutchinson Island,” Cameron said, noting that much of the surrounding development has historically been more “commodity” driven.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

Today violent crime rates are at historically low levels, yet incarceration rates continue to climb.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander