inwardly

adverb

in·​ward·​ly ˈin-wərd-lē 

1

: in the innermost being : mentally, spiritually

2

a

: beneath the surface : internally

bled inwardly

b

: to oneself : privately

cursed inwardly

Examples of inwardly in a Sentence

She was outwardly calm but inwardly nervous.

Recent Examples on the Web

While resolutions are more of a tradeoff, transformational growth is inwardly motivated, purposeful and intentional. —Tinna Jackson, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025

But her classmates had no interest in civic life—in expanding themselves inwardly in order to be of help to the world. —Sheila Heti, The New Yorker, 19 Jan. 2025

The level of outward emotional expression here is simply kept at a level true to figures who may inwardly be reaching their boiling point, but are still held back by self-respect and polite manners. —Dennis Harvey, Variety, 12 Dec. 2024

Byrne’s Beckett may be less austere, outwardly and inwardly, than the author’s prevailing image. —Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 9 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

inwardly

adverb

in·​ward·​ly ˈin-wərd-lē 

1

: in the mind or spirit

2

a

: on the inside

bled inwardly

b

: to oneself : privately

chuckled inwardly