Dumbly

/ˈdʌmli/ adverb

Definition

In a stupid, foolish, or silent manner; without speaking or without intelligence.

Etymology

From 'dumb' plus adverbial '-ly' suffix, meaning 'in a dumb way' or 'in the manner of a dumb person.'

Kelly Says

The word carries both meanings of 'dumb'—it can mean silently (not speaking) or stupidly (lacking sense)—so 'he stared dumbly' works whether you mean he couldn't speak or he didn't understand.

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