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

• here and there
• now
• now and then
• 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

This misinformation has occasionally hindered relief efforts. —Jess Craig, Vox, 17 Nov. 2024

The occasionally deep thinkers on the Grading The Week crew don’t mind coaches who refuse to stick to sports. —Sean Keeler, The Denver Post, 16 Nov. 2024

And while ticks often prefer specific hosts, some other species that feed on dogs may also occasionally attach to humans. —Jake Parks, Discover Magazine, 11 Nov. 2024

For lawmakers, businesspeople and occasionally world leaders, getting out on the links has been an important way to get close to him. —Stella Kim, NBC News, 11 Nov. 2024

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