Periodically
/ˌpɪəriˈɒdɪkli/
Definitions
At regular intervals; from time to time; recurrently.
/ˌpɪəriˈɒdɪkli/
At regular intervals of time.
The library periodically updates its collection with new books.
💡 Simply: Happening from time to time, like the mail arriving or getting a birthday present. It means things repeat in a pattern, but not always super close together.
👶 For kids: Happening every so often, like when your birthday comes every year!
More Examples
We review our budget periodically to ensure we're on track.
The company sends out newsletters periodically to keep customers informed.
How It's Used
"The earth's orbit around the sun changes periodically."
"The doctor checks his patient's blood pressure periodically."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
period of time
A duration of time.
"During that period of time, they were working in shifts."
From Greek *periodos* (a recurring interval) + -ically. *Periodos* itself is formed from *peri-* (around) + *hodos* (way, path).
The word 'periodically' has been used since the mid-17th century and has maintained its core meaning of happening at intervals.
Memory tip
Think of a calendar, where events happen PERIODICALLY on certain days.
Word Origin
"a recurring interval"