WordGarden.iodaily
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈeɪli/
US
- /ˈdeɪli/
Meanings
Adjective
happening, done, or used every day
Adverb
every day
Noun
a newspaper published every day
Beyond the definition
"Daily" describes something that occurs each and every day—like the sun rising, your morning coffee, or brushing your teeth. It's about rhythm and consistency. Think of a "daily commute"—that predictable journey to work you take almost every workday. Or a "daily special" at a restaurant, which changes each day but is always available.
The word comes from the Old English dæglīc, meaning "of a day." It's not just about things happening on a day, but being part of a repeating 24-hour cycle. A newspaper is often called a "daily" because it delivers information fresh every morning. You might also keep a "daily journal" to record your thoughts and experiences as they unfold in real time.
You can also use it as an adverb: "I check my email daily." And it's different from "everyday" (one word), which usually means "ordinary"—like "everyday clothes."
"Daily" signifies something that happens or is done every day, forming a regular pattern or routine. It is more than just occasional; it implies consistency and predictability. For example, one might say, "She has a daily habit of reading before bed," or "The factory produces a daily output of 500 units."
The word describes the frequency of events—like "daily exercise," indicating you work out every single day. It is also commonly used to categorize information that is updated once each day, such as "daily news reports," "daily stock market updates," or a "daily weather forecast." In these contexts, it highlights that the data is current and refreshed regularly.
As an adverb, it can describe how often you do something: "He practices daily." In health instructions, it often means "once a day": "Take one tablet daily."
Beyond simple repetition, "daily" can emphasize the importance of something within our fundamental existence. Our "daily bread" isn't just any loaf; it represents the essential sustenance we rely on to survive each day. Similarly, "daily affirmations" are positive statements repeated regularly to influence mindset and well-being over time.
The word is versatile enough to describe both concrete actions (a daily chore) and abstract concepts (a daily struggle). It anchors things firmly within the framework of our everyday existence. When something is described as "daily," it is woven into the fabric of a routine, happening again and again with each passing sun.
Examples
- 1
Everyday habit
I check my email daily.
- 2
Travel writing
She kept a daily journal during her trip.
- 3
Routine
Walking the dog is part of his daily routine.
- 4
App reminder
The app sends a daily reminder to drink more water.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
City life
Reliable buses make daily life much easier in a big city.
- 6
Formal phrase
Nurses deal with these problems on a daily basis.
- Usageon a daily basis
every day; common in formal speech and writing
- 7
Newspaper
The local daily put the story on its front page.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- dailynounadjectiveadverb
Forms
- dailiespluralnounadjectiveadverb