costly

/ˈkɒst.li/

UK: /ˈkɒst.li/

KⱰST · li (2 syllables)

English Adj Top 14,935
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Definition

Of high cost; expensive.

Etymology

From Middle English costly, costely, costeley, equivalent to cost + -ly.

Example Sentences

  • "a costly activity"
  • "a costly error"
  • "In the early days troubles were experienced with oscillation from the rod drive and with the transformers, but were overcome later, and these machines performed useful service until superseded by more modern locomotives less costly in maintenance."
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