Cursory | Definition of cursory by Merriam-Webster

Full Definition of CURSORY

: rapidly and often superficially performed or produced : hasty <a cursory glance>

— cur·so·ri·ly \-rə-lē\ adverb

— cur·so·ri·ness \-rē-nəs\ noun

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Origin of CURSORY

Late Latin cursorius of running, from Latin currere

First Known Use: 1601

Related to CURSORY

Synonyms: hasty, drive-by, flying, gadarene, headlong, helter-skelter, hurried, overhasty, pell-mell, precipitate, precipitous, rash, rushed

Antonyms: deliberate, unhurried, unrushed

Synonym Discussion of CURSORY

superficial, shallow, cursory mean lacking in depth or solidity. superficial implies a concern only with surface aspects or obvious features <a superficial analysis of the problem>. shallow is more generally derogatory in implying lack of depth in knowledge, reasoning, emotions, or character <a light, shallow, and frivolous review>. cursory suggests a lack of thoroughness or a neglect of details <gave the letter only a cursory reading>.

Rhymes with CURSORY

bursary, mercery, nursery

Definition of CURSORY for Kids

: done or made quickly <a cursory reply>

Learn More About CURSORY

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for "cursory"

Spanish Central: Spanish translation of "cursory"

Nglish: Translation of "cursory" for Spanish speakers

Britannica English: Translation of "cursory" for Arabic speakers

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