divinely
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /dɪvˈaɪnli/
US
- /dɪˈvaɪnli/
Description
- heavenly
- supernaturally
- beautifully
- extraordinarily
- perfectly
When something is described as being done "divinely," it has an exceptional quality—so beautiful, good, or perfect it seems touched by the heavens. It's more than just very good; it suggests a connection to something sacred or otherworldly. You might describe a breathtaking sunset as divinely inspired, or a singer with an incredible voice as performing divinely.
The word hints that a power beyond our understanding shaped something truly special. Think of the way the ancient Greeks believed muses guided artists—that's the kind of inspiration implied when something is done "divinely." It's often used to emphasize intense pleasure or admiration, like saying a chocolate cake tastes "divinely delicious."
The word "divinely" acts as an adverb, modifying verbs and adjectives to suggest a quality stemming from, resembling, or relating to God or the divine. It's not simply about religious connotations, though; it speaks to something exceptionally beautiful, perfect, or pleasing—so extraordinary that it feels beyond human creation.
In religious writing, it can also mean "by God's will" or "by divine power," as in "divinely ordained" or "divinely appointed."
For example, you might describe a piece of music as "divinely orchestrated," meaning its arrangement is breathtakingly complex and harmonious. Or perhaps a chef creates a meal so delicious it's described as being "divinely prepared." It implies an almost effortless perfection, as if guided by a higher power.
Historically, the word connects to beliefs about divine intervention or inspiration. Ancient cultures often attributed artistic talent or natural phenomena to the influence of gods and goddesses. While we may not always believe in literal divine involvement today, "divinely" still carries that sense of awe and wonder.
It's a powerful descriptor used to elevate something beyond the ordinary. A skilled dancer might move divinely, a landscape can be divinely beautiful, or a moment can feel divinely peaceful. It's about experiencing something so exquisite it feels touched by grace, beauty, or perfection itself. So when you use "divinely," you're not just describing quality; you're hinting at the sublime and transcendent.
Examples
- 1
Religious belief
Many believers saw the text as divinely inspired.
- 2
Royal authority
The king claimed a divinely ordained right to rule.
Phrase
divinely ordained
believed to be arranged by God
- 3
Singing
On stage, she sang divinely, without forcing a note.
- 4
Food pairing
Fresh bread and olive oil go divinely together.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- divinelyadverb