historically

adverb

his·​tor·​i·​cal·​ly hi-ˈstȯr-i-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce historically (audio)
-ˈstär-
1
: in accordance with or with respect to history
a historically accurate account
2
: in the past
Historically, stagnant cities seldom have recovered …Jane Jacobs

Examples of historically 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.
However, because cities still hold elections in odd years — where Democratic turnout is historically higher than in Republican-leaning suburbs and rural areas — the math could tip in the amendment’s favor. Jeffrey M. Wice, New York Daily News, 16 June 2026 The burning cross has historically been a symbol of hate that white supremacists have used to harass and intimidate Black Americans. Ivan Pereira, ABC News, 16 June 2026 While most cards are tied to the prime rate, historically, cardholders have not seen quick or meaningful reductions after the Fed has cut rates. Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 16 June 2026 The city has historically fared well at the James Beard Awards, typically winning at least one medal each year the awards are given. Zareen Syed, Chicago Tribune, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for historically

Word History

First Known Use

1550, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of historically was in 1550

Cite this Entry

“Historically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/historically. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.

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