accidentally
/ˌæk.sɪˈdɛnt(ə)li/ adverb B1- In an accidental manner; by chance, unexpectedly. · He discovered penicillin largely accidentally.· For quotations using this term, see Citations:accidentally.
- Unintentionally. · He accidentally exposed the bacteria to mold spores.
- Used with the verb omitted but implied, the verb itself having the meaning 'omit', 'delete' or similar. · I accidentally the word 'not'. (meaning "I accidentally omitted the word 'not'")· Oops, I accidentally the entire database. (meaning "I accidentally deleted the entire database")
From the library
She had never heard of him before his entrance into the ----shire militia, in which he had engaged at the persuasion of the young man, who, on meeting him accidentally in town, had there renewed a slight acquaintance.
Miss Lucas perceived him from an upper window as he walked towards the house, and instantly set out to meet him accidentally in the lane.
Jenkinson are most delightfully situated through my means; and it was but the other day that I recommended another young person, who was merely accidentally mentioned to me, and the family are quite delighted with her.
One evening, as he wandered through the suburbs with his whole attention fixed on the sky, he fell accidentally into a deep well.
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