meticulously
UK: məˈtɪkjələsli | US: məˈtɪkjələsli
adv. in a way that shows great attention to detail; very carefully
adv. with extreme precision and thoroughness
The word "meticulous" originates from the Latin meticulosus, meaning "fearful" or "timid," derived from metus (fear). Over time, its meaning shifted from "fearful" to "overly careful" (due to anxiety) and eventually to its modern sense of "extremely precise." The suffix -ly converts the adjective into an adverb, emphasizing the manner of action. This evolution reflects how anxiety-driven caution transformed into a positive trait of thoroughness.
She meticulously arranged the flowers in the vase.
The scientist meticulously recorded every detail of the experiment.
He cleaned the antique clock meticulously to avoid damage.
The artist worked meticulously on the fine lines of the portrait.
The report was meticulously researched and well-documented.