Synonyms

loosely

American

[loos-lee] / ˈlus li /

adverb

in a way that is not secure, tight, or restrained.

Cover the chicken loosely with foil so the spices don't burn.
After filling up, the driver loosely closed the gas cap, which subsequently fell off as they headed down the highway.
in a way that is not firm, rigid, or taut.

Roll the cut strip of fabric loosely, with the pattern side in.
A chain, secured at the top and bottom but hanging loosely against the rock, assists with the final steep ascent.
in a way that is relaxed or limber.

Bend forward with your head and arms hanging down loosely.
(of a structure or arrangement) in a way that is not compact and allows space between parts or components.

The flour should be loosely packed and fluffy, rather than tamped into a solid block.
The superficial fat layer is made up of tightly packed fat cells, whereas in the deeper layers the cells are more loosely arranged.
in a way that is not strict or precise.

Romania was made famous in the West by the legend of Dracula, based loosely on Vlad the Impaler.
The term is often used rather loosely to refer to any group with identifiable shared characteristics.
in a way that has few restraints and allows for freedom of independent action.

The cooperative buys organic soybeans from a loosely organized group of independent Michigan growers, and resells the beans to customers in Japan and elsewhere.

Other Word Forms

overloosely adverb

Etymology

Origin of loosely

loose ( def. ) + -ly

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 U.K. version of the heavily processed, bass-saturated sound known as dubstep was gaining prominence, and Ms. Ware was loosely associated with this scene.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

Having made 15, Martin Andersson wafted uncharacteristically loosely outside the off stump and edged a catch to Jones at first slip.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

Before your visit, I would recommend loosely plotting out your day using the fair’s map.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

At this point, college sports strike me as a business only loosely tied to the university.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

She looked up as her father and I came in and her mouth moved a little, loosely, as if she had no control over her lips.

From "Nectar in a Sieve" by Kamala Markandaya

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023