verbally

[vur-buh-lee]

adverb

1. using spoken words rather than written words; orally.

   The committee verbally OK’d the park renewal plan.

2. by the use of words, rather than by physical means.

   Pain inflicted verbally can leave deep, invisible scars.

3. Grammar.,  with the function of a verb.

   When used verbally, the term ‘bird-dog’ is hyphenated.

Other Word Forms

• nonverbally adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of verbally¹

First recorded in 1570–70; verbal ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

Schwartzman’s lab found that when the questionnaire was administered verbally to autistic kids, it flagged only 80% of those in the study group who were having suicidal thoughts.

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Most mental health interventions start with a provider verbally asking a deceptively simple question: What are you feeling?

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Fury flashes in Autumn’s eyes, and she responds verbally.

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He also said he was approached by a group and spat upon while locking up his office one evening, and was verbally abused and had objects thrown at him on a visit to Cardiff.

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The Scottish champions have released footage which they say shows "around 100" supporters verbally abusing and assaulting a steward and two police officers on Wednesday, 29 October.

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