originally

adverb

orig·​i·​nal·​ly ə-ˈri-jə-nᵊl-ē 

-ˈrij-nə-lē, 

-ˈri-jən-

1

archaic : by origin or derivation : inherently

2

: in the beginning : in the first place : initially

3

: in a fresh or original manner

Synonyms of originally

• initially
• primarily

Examples of originally in a Sentence

That van originally belonged to us.

The building was originally a school.

They originally planned to fix their old car, but they decided to buy a new one instead.

Originally, the word had a very different meaning from its current meaning.

a New Yorker who is originally from Mexico

She has shown an ability to think originally about ways to improve the company.

Recent Examples on the Web

Part of The Coach Originals, it’s inspired by one of the brand’s legacy bags that originally debuted in 1997. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 8 Mar. 2026

The board’s resolution to fill the seat originally stated that two to four candidates would be interviewed. —Imani Cruzen, Twin Cities, 8 Mar. 2026

The historic highway was originally commissioned in 1926, marking its 100th anniversary in 2026. —Sari Hitchins, Parents, 8 Mar. 2026

Trautman was originally drafted by Payton in New Orleans in 2020 out of Dayton. —Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 8 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

originally

adverb

orig·​i·​nal·​ly ə-ˈrij-ən-ᵊl-ē 

-nəl-ē

1

: in the beginning : in the first place

2

: in an original manner