occasionally

adverb

oc·​ca·​sion·​al·​ly ə-ˈkā-zh(ə-)nə-lē 

: on occasion : now and then

dines out occasionally

We occasionally see deer in the field.

Synonyms of occasionally

• sometimes

Examples of occasionally in a Sentence

Occasionally, things don't go as planned.

Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.

Recent Examples on the Web

But anger is only an occasionally riveting spice in this show, not the dominant emotion. —Chris Willman, Variety, 19 June 2026

The couple has been married since 2023, though Owens' NFL career has occasionally forced them to spend time apart. —Jackson Thompson Outkick, FOXNews.com, 19 June 2026

This one-of-a-kind woman heads the collection founded in its day by Emile Hermès (1871–1951)—an extraordinary cabinet of curiosities whose doors are occasionally opened to a select few on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. —Pierre Groppo, Vanity Fair, 19 June 2026

Cook over medium heat until soft and golden brown, 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. —Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 18 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English occasionaly "on a particular occasion, sometimes," from occasyonal occasional + -ly -ly entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing occasionally

• very occasionally

Kids Definition

occasionally

adverb

oc·​ca·​sion·​al·​ly -ē 

: from time to time

occasionally goes to the movies