Repeatedly over a period of time, often with brief interruptions; happening again and again.
From Latin 'continuus,' meaning 'uninterrupted,' derived from 'continere' (to hold together). The English word developed in the 14th century, though it has come to allow for brief interruptions unlike 'continuously.'
There's a subtle but important distinction between 'continually' and 'continuously' - continually allows for brief pauses (like continually checking your phone), while continuously suggests no interruption at all. This distinction emerged as English speakers needed to express different types of ongoing action.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.