virtually

adverb

vir·​tu·​al·​ly ˈvər-chə-wə-lē How to pronounce virtually (audio)
-chə-lē;
ˈvərch-wə-lē
Synonyms of virtually
1
a
: almost entirely : nearly
The project is virtually complete.
Virtually every applicant was overqualified for the job.
b
: for all practical purposes
She was virtually unknown prior to starring in the film.
It is virtually impossible to know the truth of the matter.
2
: by means of a computer or computer network : in a virtual location
The meeting is being held virtually.
They did all their shopping virtually.

Examples of virtually in a Sentence

We spent virtually all day shopping. The stadium was virtually empty by the time the game ended. I remember virtually everything he said. That illness is virtually unknown in this area.
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.
Even with their lead halved, a victory was virtually secured. Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 5 July 2026 Many can give PhD-level answers to virtually every discipline under the Sun. Will Marshall, Time, 7 July 2026 Pocovi participated in the hearing virtually from Buenos Aires, the outlet reported. Christine Pelisek, PEOPLE, 7 July 2026 In addition, their style of play makes broad use of their outrageous attacking options, virtually guaranteeing a supply of chances for a player who can score almost any type of goal from anywhere in the attacking third. Tim Spiers, New York Times, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for virtually

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1600, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of virtually was circa 1600

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Cite this Entry

“Virtually.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/virtually. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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