really

Adverb

really (comparative more really, superlative most really)

1. (literal) In a way or manner that is real, not unreal.
   • We are to believe that by an extraordinary Conception by Means of the holy Ghost he in an extraordinary MANNER, (unknown to us) really assumed Flesh, and was by her nourished in the Womb and in due Time born in a natural Manner, and that whilst on Earth he was really hungry, and dry, and eat and...1751, John Roche, Moravian Heresy, page 168
   • If we take the phenomenal world as it strikes our senses, in all its varied and wonderful powers and aspects; as the mere symbol of the Divine Presence and power, that is, according to Christ, ever in, through, and over all, as really as are causal light, heat and gravity, or as really as our own...1878, Jonathan Baldwin Turner, Christ's Words as Related to Science,..., page 52
2. (modal) Actually; in fact; in reality.
   • "He really is a true friend." / "Really? What makes you so sure?"

   Synonyms:

   actually

3. (informal) Very (modifying an adjective); very much (modifying a verb).
   • But ma, I really, really want to go to the show!
   • It was a joy to snatch some brief respite, and find himself in the rectory drawing–room. Listening here was as pleasant as talking; just to watch was pleasant. The young priests who lived here wore cassocks and birettas; their faces were fine and mild, yet really strong, like the rector's face; and...1918, W[illiam] B[abington] Maxwell, chapter X, in The Mirror and the Lamp, Indianapolis, Ind.: The Bobbs-Merrill Company, →OCLC

Interjection

1. (informal) Indicating surprise at, or requesting confirmation of, some new information; to express skepticism.
   • A: He won the Nobel Prize yesterday.
   • B: Really?
   1. (broadly, informal) A phatic confirmation by a listener, to signal active listening; mostly devoid of literal meaning, with the phatically contrived incredulity being merely formulaic.
      • A: You know, I saw Oliver the other day.
      • B: Really? What's he been up to?
2. (informal, sarcastic, typically exaggerated question.) Indicating that what was just said was obvious and unnecessary; contrived incredulity
   • A: I've just been reading Shakespeare - he's one of the best authors like, ever!
   • B: Really?
3. (US, informal) Indicating affirmation, agreement.
   • A: That girl talks about herself way too much.
   • B: Really. She's a nightmare.

   Synonyms:

   actually

4. (informal) Indicating displeasure at another person's behaviour or statement.
   • Well, really! How rude.