purportedly

adverb

pur·​port·​ed·​ly (ˌ)pər-ˈpȯr-təd-lē How to pronounce purportedly (audio)
Synonyms of purportedlynext
: it is purported : ostensibly, allegedly

Examples of purportedly 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.
The data center purportedly would have a higher potential to create revenue, lower noise and less traffic on roads in residential areas. — Dale Denwalt, Oklahoman, 1 July 2026 The reviewers imposed a competence penalty against all of the engineers who purportedly used AI as compared to non-AI users. — Michelle Travis, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 Complicating matters, a number of people have advocated for something called hormesis, in which small doses of radiation purportedly promote the cellular repair of damage from other sources. — ArsTechnica, 6 July 2026 The lawsuit says Meta is seeking $50,000 in damages for each time Wynn-Williams purportedly violates the non-disparagement agreement, putting her under financial duress. — Barbara Ortutay, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for purportedly

Word History

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of purportedly was in 1942

Rhymes for purportedly

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Browse Nearby Words

purported
purportedly
purportless
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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