DictionaryAI

very

VE-ree/ˈvɛɹi/

Adjectiveverier, veriest

6 meanings of very

Practice

  1. 1
    highlyadverb
    To a high degree, as in 'very cold' or 'very quickly'.

    Think of it like turning up the volume on an adjective.

    The water was very cold.

    She spoke very quietly.

    UsageSay I like it very much (not incorrect: I very like it).

    Similarextremely, really, exceedingly, terribly

    Oppositeslightly

    Note
  2. 2
    adverb
    Used before words like 'best' or 'first' to make them stronger.

    She was the very first person in her family to go to college.

    We sat in the very last row of the theater.

    UsageSay the very best or the very first.

    Note
  3. 3
    adjective
    Exactly the same one, as in 'the very table'.

    He proposed at the very table where they met.

    That's the very tool I need.

    UsageSay the very thing or this very place.

    Similarexact, same, precise, actual

    Note

Less common meanings

  1. 4
    just the ideaadjective
    Used to show that just the thought, sight or mention of something is enough to cause a reaction.

    The very idea of flying makes me sweat.

    The very thought of it made her laugh.

    UsageSay the very thought of something.

    Similarmere

    Note
  2. 5
    true exampleadjectiveliterary
    True or real, in old or literary style, as in 'a very woman'.

    Similartrue, real, veritable

    Note
  3. 6
    adverbobsolete
    Truly or really, in an old use.

    Similartruly, actually, authentically

    Note

Practice

Can you tell the meanings of very apart? Answer 3 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.

Origin

It comes from Old French verai, meaning "true," which came from Latin words for "true."

Checked 1 Nov 2026 · 4 facts