totally

UK: ˈtəʊtəli | US: ˈtoʊtəli

Definition

  1. adv. completely or entirely

  2. adv. (informal) used for emphasis, often to express agreement

Structure
total <whole, complete>ly <adverb suffix>
Etymology

The word "totally" derives from the Late Latin "totalis" (whole, entire), which entered Middle English via Old French "total." The suffix "-ly" is a productive adverbial suffix in English, originating from Old English "-līce," used to form adverbs from adjectives. The combination "total + ly" literally means "in a complete manner," reflecting its modern usage to express entirety or emphasis.

Examples

  1. She was totally exhausted after the marathon.

  2. I totally agree with your proposal.

  3. The project was totally successful.

  4. He forgot his keys—totally careless!

  5. The movie was totally different from the book.