phrasal

adjective

phras·​al ˈfrā-zəl How to pronounce phrasal (audio)
: of, relating to, or consisting of a phrase
phrasal prepositions
phrasally adverb

Examples of phrasal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Repetition has an indelible place in Black expressive culture: in the syncopated rhythms of jazz, the phrasal repetitions of the blues and the guttural moans of soul made meaningful by dint of remarkable vocal performances. Adam Bradley, New York Times, 4 Mar. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'phrasal.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of phrasal was in 1859

Dictionary Entries Near phrasal

Cite this Entry

“Phrasal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phrasal. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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