expressly

adverb

ex·​press·​ly ik-ˈspres-lē How to pronounce expressly (audio)
Synonyms of expresslynext
1
: in an express manner : explicitly
expressly rejected the proposal
2
: for the express purpose : particularly, specifically
made expressly for me

Examples of expressly in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The White House press corps is not normally allowed at Camp David unless expressly invited to cover, unlike the White House, where journalists usually camp out. — Mabinty Quarshie, The Washington Examiner, 31 July 2026 Federal law prohibits debt collectors from collecting any amount — including interest, fees or other charges — unless those amounts are expressly authorized by the original contract or permitted under applicable state law. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 30 July 2026 The statute does not expressly address how its notice requirements apply in that circumstance. — Alonzo Martinez, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which had been set up in 1967 expressly to funnel federal money to local stations, went out of business. — David Folkenflik, NPR, 26 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for expressly

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of expressly was in the 14th century

Rhymes for expressly

See All Rhymes for expressly

Browse Nearby Words

express liner
expressly
Express Mail
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Cite this Entry

“Expressly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expressly. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

expressly

adverb
ex·​press·​ly ik-ˈspres-lē How to pronounce expressly (audio)
1
: so as to be absolutely clear : explicitly
was expressly forbidden to smoke
2
: for the express purpose : especially
came expressly to congratulate her

Legal Definition

expressly

adverb
ex·​press·​ly
: in an express manner : in definite and distinct terms
acceptance is expressly conditional

More from Merriam-Webster on expressly

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for expressly

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