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Definitions

idly

[ahyd-lee] / ˈaɪd li /
ADVERB
lazily
Synonyms


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Still, the EU is not standing back idly.

From BBC Jun. 5, 2026

He now spends the long hours idly scrolling through his phone or chatting with neighbours.

From Barron's May 4, 2026

With his words, Mr. Picton is playing with ideas, trying out phrases, idly offering questions without necessarily understanding where his stories are going.

From The Wall Street Journal Apr. 14, 2026

Maybe it is plainly shameful to sit idly by, waiting for the police to peel back more layers of abominable detail, so it can be quickly disseminated to a hungry audience.

From Slate Feb. 23, 2026

“I cannot stand idly by while she suffers. I have some skill with plants and potions. Let me administer a medicine that might restore balance to her mind,” I plead.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein




Vocabulary lists containing idly


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