reportedly

American  

[ri-pawr-tid-lee, -pohr-] / rɪˈpɔr tɪd li, -ˈpoʊr- /

adverb

1. according to report or rumor.

   Reportedly, he is a billionaire.

---

reportedly British  

/ rɪˈpɔːtɪdlɪ /

adverb

1. according to rumour or report

   he is reportedly living in Australia

---

Etymology

Origin of reportedly

First recorded in 1900–05; report + -ed ² + -ly

Explanation

When something is reportedly true, it means people say it's true, but it hasn't necessarily been confirmed. If your favorite band is reportedly coming to town, it may just be an unfounded rumor. The word reportedly implies that information has been shared by others, but it hasn't been officially verified. For example, if someone says they've heard that a new movie is in the works, but there's no official announcement yet, then it is reportedly happening. Using the word reportedly helps indicate that the details are not certain, reminding us to take such news with a grain of caution until all the facts are in.

Example Sentences

In travel news this week, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby reportedly floated the idea of a mega merger with American Airlines to President Trump.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

He has been linked with La Liga leaders Barcelona, Serie A side Juventus and clubs in the United States, while Ligue 1 leaders Paris St-Germain have reportedly, external been suitors in the past.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

The short-term rental strategy was launched in 2013 and involved an online business to list properties on digital platforms, which reportedly included Vrbo and Airbnb.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

It’s now reportedly receiving offers for a new round of funding that would value it at $800 billion or more.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 2026

Mr. Muhammad reportedly had said, “Brother Malcolm got to be a big man. I made him big. I was about to make him a great man. ’

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey