really

adverb

re·​al·​ly ˈrē-(ə-)lē How to pronounce really (audio)
1
a
: in reality : actually
things as they really are
there was nothing peculiar about her doing this, reallyPeter 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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There was a time when Marvel was really crushing DC, but for the last few years it’s been pretty bleak on all sides, with only a smattering of decent comic book movies punctuating a the parade of mediocrity. Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025 Bobby’s death affects every single character’s story in a way that really no other character death would. Samantha Stutsman, People.com, 16 May 2025 The Leafs look like a team right now that really needs its goalie to lead the way and keep games close, even if there’s a barrage of shots coming his way. James Mirtle, New York Times, 16 May 2025 Harold Becker had created that really defined the rest of my career. Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 16 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for really

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of really was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Really.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/really. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

really

adverb
re·​al·​ly ˈrē-(ə-)lē How to pronounce really (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on really

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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