English edit

Pronunciation edit

Etymology 1 edit

From Middle English poorly, pouerly, poreliche, poureliche, pouerliche, equivalent to poor +‎ -ly.

Adverb edit

poorly (comparative poorlier or more poorly, superlative poorliest or most poorly)

  1. In a poor manner or condition; without plenty, or sufficiency, or suitable provision for comfort.
    to live poorly
  2. With little or no success; indifferently; with little profit or advantage.
    to do poorly in business
  3. Meanly; without spirit.
  4. Without skill or merit.
    He plays tennis poorly.
  5. In a negative manner; with disapproval.
    I think poorly of them.
    She looked poorly on that suggestion.
Collocations edit
Translations edit

Etymology 2 edit

From poor +‎ -ly.

Adjective edit

poorly (not comparable)

  1. (UK) ill, unwell, sick
    to report one's child poorly
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