poorly

[ poor-lee ]

adverb

1. in a poor manner or way:

   The team played poorly.

adjective

1. in poor health; somewhat ill:

   I hear she's been poorly.

poorly

/ ˈpɔː-; ˈpʊəlɪ /

adverb

1. in a poor way or manner; badly

adjective

1. informal.
   usually postpositive in poor health; rather ill

   she's poorly today

Word History and Origins

Origin of poorly¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, poorly is from the Middle English word pourely. See poor, -ly

Example Sentences

"Groundwater is challenging to manage because it is hidden below ground and poorly understood," said William Jaeger, a professor of applied economics at Oregon State.

From Science Daily

Access to parks was also patchy, with Singapore and Amsterdam scoring high while Buenos Aires and New York City scored poorly.

From Science Daily

The mechanisms underlying skin renewal are still poorly understood.

From Science Daily

The department said in a release that it is not only unsafe but can complicate an investigation if evidence is handled poorly.

From Los Angeles Times

After Evans and Jones' "running joke" was poorly received the pair apologised.

From BBC

Related Words

• ill