Definition of radically

The word "radically" originates from the Latin words "radix," meaning root, and "calcare," meaning to scrape or scratch. In Latin, the term "radicalis" meant "of or pertaining to the root." When the word entered Middle English in the 14th century, it retained this meaning, referring to something that goes to the root or foundation of an issue. Over time, the word's meaning expanded to encompass concepts such as a fundamental change or a complete overturning of something. In the 17th century, the term "radically" emerged as an adverb, meaning to do something in a thorough or complete manner. Today, we use "radically" to describe something that is done to the root or core of an issue, or to describe a change or solution that is complete and thorough.