poorly

[ poor-lee ]

adverb

1. in a poor manner or way:

   The team played poorly.

adjective

1. in poor health; somewhat ill:

   I hear she's been poorly.

poorly

/ ˈpɔː-; ˈpʊəlɪ /

adverb

1. in a poor way or manner; badly

adjective

1. informal.
   usually postpositive in poor health; rather ill

   she's poorly today

Word History and Origins

Origin of poorly¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, poorly is from the Middle English word pourely. See poor, -ly

Example Sentences

I'm not a firm believer in reincarnation or any mystical business, but when you notice a detail like that while somebody is treating you poorly, it makes a dreadful situation feel that much worse.

From Salon

The founding member of seminal hip-hop group Public Enemy called the situation “poorly handled” and thanked fans for the support he received after his initial post.

From Los Angeles Times

These East Sussex dinosaurs are older than those from the better-known Cretaceous sediments of the Isle of Wight, and are mysterious and poorly known by comparison.

From Science Daily

But Hegseth also talked out of both sides of his mouth, claiming, on one hand, that the poorly defined allegations against him are "made up" while also admitting to "kernels of truth."

From Salon

If England played as poorly as New Zealand did last week there would have been calls to send them home.

From BBC

Related Words

• ill