verbally

American  

[vur-buh-lee] / ˈvɜr bə li /

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.

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Other Word Forms

• nonverbally adverb

Etymology

Origin of verbally

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

Example Sentences

In 2025, the US president went as far as visiting the Fed's under-renovation headquarters, where he verbally tussled with Powell as the two toured the site.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

The SEC does not necessarily require disclosures to be made in person or delivered verbally.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 24, 2026

The RSF has verbally accepted a Quad roadmap for peace beginning with a humanitarian truce, but neither side has formally responded and fighting has accelerated rather than abated.

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2026

Approval can be given verbally, in writing, or by “clear and conspicuous signage.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 16, 2026

Discreetly, she added, “I have definite reasons for making these statements and shall be glad to make a full explanation verbally, if you so desire.”

From "The Woman All Spies Fear" by Amy Butler Greenfield