English · Word Candidate

poorly

/ˈpʊə.li/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: poorlier · poorliest

Sense 1

Meaning · English

In a poor manner or condition; without plenty, or sufficiency, or suitable provision for comfort.

Adverb

to live poorly

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

With little or no success; indifferently; with little profit or advantage.

Adverb

to do poorly in business

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

Ill, unwell, sick.

AdjectiveRegister: UK

to report one's child poorly

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “poorly” mean?

In a poor manner or condition; without plenty, or sufficiency, or suitable provision for comfort.

Is “poorly” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.