originally

American  

[uh-rij-uh-nl-ee] / əˈrɪdʒ ə nl i /

adverb

1. with respect to origin; by origin.

   Originally he came from California.

2. at the beginning; at first.

   Originally this was to be in three volumes.

3. in the first place; primarily.

   Originally nomads, they first learned agriculture from the missionaries.

4. in an original, novel, or distinctively individual manner.

   Originally planned houses are much in demand.

5. Archaic. from the beginning; from the first; inherently.

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originally British  

/ əˈrɪdʒɪnəlɪ /

adverb

1. in the first place

2. in an original way

3. with reference to the origin or beginning

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Etymology

Origin of originally

First recorded in 1480–90; original + -ly

Example Sentences

The scene originally had Peet’s character being recognized by someone who awkwardly can’t quite place her.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

The mission was originally due to take off as early as February.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

Rodríguez, who served as Maduro’s vice president, was originally sanctioned by the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

His remarks, made in conversation with European Council President António Costa, were originally reported by Iranian state media.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

There were only eighteen sleeping bags, originally meant for the overland journey, and the men drew straws to see who would get them.

From "Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World" by Jennifer Armstrong

Related Words

• basically
• formerly