occasionally

adverb

oc·​ca·​sion·​al·​ly ə-ˈkā-zh(ə-)nə-lē How to pronounce occasionally (audio)
Synonyms of occasionally
: on occasion : now and then
dines out occasionally
We occasionally see deer in the field.

Synonyms of occasionally

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Examples of occasionally in a Sentence

Occasionally, things don't go as planned. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.
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.
The data shows reminder emails, occasionally free shipping, and that’s about it. — Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 3 July 2026 Cook for 35–45 minutes, rotating occasionally if needed for even heat. — Staff, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026 These amplify the virus and occasionally push it into new territory, but their contribution is episodic. — John Drake, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026 From the risk of leaks and water damage to potential electrical issues, a seemingly harmless load of laundry can occasionally turn into an expensive problem. — Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for occasionally

Word History

Etymology

Middle English occasionaly "on a particular occasion, sometimes," from occasyonal occasional + -ly -ly entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of occasionally was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing occasionally

Browse Nearby Words

occasionality
occasionally
occasioner
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Cite this Entry

“Occasionally.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/occasionally. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

occasionally

adverb
oc·​ca·​sion·​al·​ly -ē How to pronounce occasionally (audio)
: from time to time
occasionally goes to the movies

More from Merriam-Webster on occasionally

Nglish: Translation of occasionally for Spanish Speakers

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