exquisitely

[ ik-skwiz-it-lee, ek-skwi-zit-lee ]

adverb

1. excellently, especially in a way that shows extreme refinement or elegance:

   The scenic design is gorgeous, and the show is exquisitely lit.

   Under the tree stands a group of exquisitely sculpted Buddhas.

2. to a degree that is exceptional or extraordinary:

   String theory suggests that the universe is created by the vibrations of exquisitely tiny superstrings in ten spatial dimensions.

3. to an extreme degree; intensely:

   Until that point, I had not heard the details of my students’ exquisitely personal stories of the experience of war.

   The ocean swim was truly invigorating, and I felt exquisitely alive.

4. showing keen sensitivity:

   The blood-brain barrier is a network that exquisitely controls the movement of cells and molecules between the blood and the fluid that surrounds the brain.

Other Words From

• su·per·ex·quis·ite·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of exquisitely¹

exquisite ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Phages are exquisitely specific for their bacterial targets, and some treatments were prescribed for the wrong infections.

From Salon

China is setting out to chart an exquisitely detailed subterranean atlas across the country’s vast expanse.

From Science Magazine

Another said the British military had to shed its culture where “only the most exquisitely perfect products may be bought”.

From BBC

As a pitch for fascism, "make the liberals fake-smile at me" is exquisitely childish.

From Salon

Stafford split two defenders — one of which was flagged for pass interference — with an exquisitely precise throw.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• appealingly
• attractively
• charmingly
• delightfully
• elegantly
• gorgeously
• gracefully
• handsomely
• magnificently
• seductively
• splendidly
• sublimely
• superbly
• tastefully
• wonderfully