topically

American  

[top-i-klee] / ˈtɒp ɪ kli /

adverb

1. in a way that relates to a matter of local or current interest.

   This website is a treasure trove of culturally pertinent and topically applicable training curricula.

2. in a way that reflects the subject of a discussion, piece of writing, etc.; by topic.

   Her papers include 25 binders of newspaper clippings from 1964 to 1975, organized topically.

   The conference is a series of topically organized panels, seminars, and roundtable discussions.

3. on the surface; externally.

   The antifungal lotion is to be applied topically twice daily for 14 days.

   Most modern carpets have stain and soil treatments that have been topically applied to the fibers.

---

Etymology

Origin of topically

topical ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

It’s also sold topically as a foam or cream, though that is less popular for patients because it can be messy.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 27, 2026

She was stunned to find that a lot of her symptoms - which included brain fog, low mood, joint pain and anxiety - became “vastly better” when she began using progesterone cream topically.

From BBC • Nov. 13, 2024

According to the guidelines, the topical anesthetic lidocaine “might be useful for reducing patient pain” when injected as a local anesthetic or applied topically as a numbing gel, cream or spray.

From Salon • Aug. 14, 2024

“After all, the name Sackler has really nothing to do topically with biophysics,” Schwille writes in an email to Science.

From Science Magazine • Jun. 6, 2024

In reviews, also, in such subjects as history and geography, the pupils should be frequently called upon to recite topically.

From Ontario Normal School Manuals: Science of Education by Ontario. Ministry of Education