really

adverb

re·​al·​ly ˈrē-(ə-)lē 

1

a

: in reality : actually

things as they really are

there was nothing peculiar about her doing this, really

—Peter Taylor

b

: truly, unquestionably

—used as an intensifier

a really beautiful day

c

: very sense 1

look really close

he runs really fast

2

—used to emphasize an assertion

you really should read Yeats

really, you're being ridiculous

Synonyms

• actually
• authentically
• certifiably
• genuinely
• truly
• veritably
• very

Examples of really in a Sentence

The dog runs really fast.

The water is really hot.

She's a really nice person.

I had a really good time at the party.

Recent Examples on the Web

The pair really do go through the ringer, evading elephant stampedes, treacherous mountains, and ice cold snowy condidtions that look like Disney is setting up a cross over sequel with Frozen. —Pete Hammond, Deadline, 17 Dec. 2024

We’ve been ushered, gradually and completely, into a world where every voice matters, of course, but some — those of an establishment class who want to make sure everyone is really welcomed — matter more than ours. —Daniel D'addario, Variety, 17 Dec. 2024

This is a really aromatic whisky for those that like something a bit lighter and fresher. —Paul Caputo, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024

Force the overpaid consultants and contractors who give really bad advice to get immersed into the culture of an old mill town trying to make its way in the new economy. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 17 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing really

• not really

Kids Definition

really

adverb

re·​al·​ly ˈrē-(ə-)lē 

ˈri(-ə)l-ē

1

: in actual fact : actually

didn't really mean it

2

: without question : truly

a really beautiful day

3

: very entry 2 sense 2

look really close

he runs really fast

4

: to be honest : frankly