Pronunciation: [fˈɪʃɪlɪ] (IPA) 
The word "fishily" is spelled with three syllables, represented by the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈfɪʃɪli/. The first syllable is stressed and pronounced like the word "dish" but with an "f" sound instead of a "d" sound. The following syllables are pronounced with a short "i" sound, like "fish" and "lee". This word is an adverb that means something is done in a suspicious or dubious manner, perhaps similar to the behavior of a fish.
Fishily is an adverb used to describe something that appears suspicious or questionable, often relating to someone's behavior, actions, or statements, resembling the characteristic traits associated with fish or representing actions that are typical of a fish.
In a literal sense, fishily can refer to something that has a distinct odor or taste similar to fish or seafood. For instance, one might describe a dish as fishily flavored if it contains an excessive amount of fish or its derivatives.
However, in a figurative context, fishily conveys a sense of skepticism, uncertainty, or doubtfulness. When someone behaves fishily, they engage in actions that raise suspicions or give the impression that there may be something clandestine or deceitful occurring. This can be reflected in their body language, evasiveness, or contradicting statements, causing others to question their honesty or motives. Additionally, if an explanation or claim seems fishy, it suggests that it is implausible, dubious, or lacking credibility, leading others to be skeptical or hesitant to accept it at face value.
Overall, the term fishily carries a negative connotation and is used to describe situations, behaviors, or statements that appear suspicious, doubtful, or untrustworthy.
The word fishily is derived from the noun fish with the addition of the suffix -ly.
The noun fish originated from the Old English word fisc, which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word *fiskaz. This Old English term was commonly used to refer to the aquatic creature we know as fish.
The suffix -ly is added to the noun fish to create the adverb fishily. -ly is a suffix commonly used in English to convert adjectives into adverbs. In this case, it transforms the adjective fishy into its adverb form fishily.
Overall, the etymology of fishily is a combination of the Old English word fisc and the adverb-forming suffix -ly.
