The meaning of POORLY is in a poor condition or manner; especially : in an inferior or imperfect way : badly. How to use poorly in a sentence. POORLY definition: in a poor manner or way.

Context Explanation

See examples of poorly used in a sentence. POORLY definition: 1. not well: 2. ill: 3.

Insight Material

not well: . Learn more. poorly (comparative more poorly or (rare) poorlier, superlative most poorly or (rare) poorliest) In a poor manner or condition; without plenty, or sufficiency, or suitable provision for comfort. Definitions of poorly adverb (`ill' is often used as a combining form) in a poor or improper or unsatisfactory manner; not well “the team played poorly ” synonyms: badly, ill adjective somewhat ill or prone to illness Definition of poorly adverb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Final Conclusion

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025 poor ly (pŏŏr′ lē), adv. in a poor manner or way: The team played poorly. adj. in poor health; somewhat ill: I hear she's been poorly. There are four meanings listed in OED's entry for the adverb poorly, one of which is labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.