English Reference
adverb

wildly

adv.
US /ˈwaɪɫdɫi/ UK /wˈaɪldli/ wild·ly

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    in a way that is not controlled, often showing strong emotion or energy.

    in an uncontrolled, unrestrained, or chaotic manner.

    Simple

    The children were running wildly around the garden during the party.

    In context

    The crowd cheered wildly as the underdog team scored the winning goal in the final seconds of the match.

    Usage

    Usually follows the verb it modifies.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    to a very great or extreme degree.

    to an extreme or excessive degree; often used to intensify adjectives related to success or difference.

    Simple

    The new app became wildly popular within just a few weeks.

    In context

    The actual costs of the renovation project differed wildly from the original estimates provided by the contractor.

    Usage

    Typically functions as an intensifier before an adjective.

The Argentinian international arrowed in a shot from outside the box on his weaker left foot and celebrated wildly in front of the Kop.

Al Jazeera· 9 Sept 2026

It should fall somewhere between Jodie Foster’s True Detective: Night Country and a wildly freewheeling fairytale.

The Guardian· 28 Aug 2026

From Middle English wildely, wijldeli, wildeliche, equivalent to wild + -ly.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Middle English wildely
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated