# hilariously

/hɪˈɫɛɹiəsɫi/ (US) · /hɪlˈeəɹɪəsli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hilariously
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

in a way that is extremely funny. You use this when something makes you laugh a lot.

For teachers: in an extremely amusing or comical manner. Often used as a sentence modifier to express the speaker's attitude toward a situation.

## Examples

- The cat failed hilariously to jump onto the sofa.
- The play was hilariously bad, with actors forgetting their lines and props falling over throughout the night.
- The politician's attempt to appear relatable backfired hilariously when he failed to identify a single common grocery item during the televised interview.

## Usage notes

- Can function as a manner adverb or a sentence adverb; in the latter case, it often appears at the start of a clause.

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