# ponderously

**Pronunciation:** /ˈpɒndərəsli/ · PON-der-us-lee

**Part of speech:** adverb

## Meaning

Moving or acting with great difficulty and slowness, often due to excessive weight or a dull, labored manner.

## Examples

- The heavy, armored tank moved ponderously across the muddy field.
- He spoke ponderously, pausing for several seconds between each word as he searched for the right thought.
- The massive ship turned ponderously in the harbor, requiring the assistance of three tugboats.

## Synonyms

- slowly — The most general term for lack of speed.
- heavily — Focuses on the weight or burden causing the slow movement.
- laboriously — Emphasizes the great effort or difficulty required to perform an action.
- cumbersomely — Suggests something is awkward and difficult to manage due to size or shape.

## Antonyms

- lightly — Moving with ease and little weight.
- nimbly — Moving with quick, light, and easy grace.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/ponderously

[Browse the English learner dictionary](https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english)