verbally

[ vur-buh-lee ]

adverb

1. using spoken words rather than written words; orally:

   The committee verbally OK’d the park renewal plan.

2. by the use of words, rather than by physical means:

   Pain inflicted verbally can leave deep, invisible scars.

3. Grammar. with the function of a verb:

   When used verbally, the term ‘bird-dog’ is hyphenated.

Other Words From

• non·verbal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of verbally¹

First recorded in 1570–70; verbal ( def ) + -ly ( def )

Example Sentences

“To have someone who can challenge you and go back and forth verbally and have it turn into something that’s not violent is a way of improving oneself.”

From Los Angeles Times

An investigation found the Reform UK MP for Ashfield “verbally insulted” the guard twice when asked to show his pass as he tried to enter the Parliamentary estate in November 2023.

From BBC

Nigerian politician Alex Ikwechegh has caused outrage after he was caught on video slapping and verbally abusing a taxi driver delivering food to his house.

From BBC

He began expressing himself verbally as he gained confidence at Florida State, where he starred for two seasons.

From Los Angeles Times

She became obsessed with the platform’s live battle feature - which sees two influencers verbally spar and sometimes mock each other as they solicit money from their followers to win the bout.

From BBC