accidentally

UK: ˌæksɪˈdɛntəli | US: ˌæksəˈdɛntəli

Definition

  1. adv. by chance or without intention

  2. adv. as a secondary or unintended consequence

Structure
accident <event>al <adjective suffix>ly <adverb suffix>
Etymology

The word traces back to the Latin accidere, which metaphorically linked "falling" (cadere) to unforeseen events. Over time, accident evolved to mean "unplanned occurrence," with -al and -ly later added to form the adverbial form. The progression reflects a shift from physical falling to abstract happenings.

Examples

  1. She accidentally spilled coffee on her laptop.

  2. The discovery was made accidentally during an unrelated experiment.

  3. He accidentally sent the email to the wrong recipient.

  4. The door locked accidentally when the wind blew it shut.

  5. They met accidentally at a remote hiking trail.