alarmingly
UK: əˈlɑːmɪŋli | US: əˈlɑːrmɪŋli
Definition
adv. in a manner causing worry or fear
adv. to a startling or shocking degree
Structure
alarm <warning>ing <present participle>ly <adverb suffix>
Etymology
The word "alarmingly" derives from the Old Italian "all'arme" (to arms!), a call to alert soldiers of danger. The root "alarm" entered English via French "alarme," retaining its core meaning of warning or sudden fear. The suffix "-ing" forms the present participle, and "-ly" converts it into an adverb. Over time, "alarmingly" evolved to describe actions or states that provoke concern or surprise, emphasizing intensity.
Examples
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