anyway

adverb

any·​way ˈe-nē-ˌwā How to pronounce anyway (audio)
Synonyms of anywaynext
1
: in any way whatever : anywise
2
: in any case : without regard to other considerations : anyhow
She knew it was dangerous, but she did it anyway.
3
: as an additional consideration or thought
We don't need a new car, and anyway, we can't afford one.

Examples of anyway in a Sentence

The road got worse, but they kept going anyway. I didn't expect her to say “yes,” but I asked her anyway. It makes no difference what we say. She's going to do what she wants anyway. He's far from perfect, but she loves him anyway.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That’s where my head’s at, anyway. Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 15 Feb. 2026 Naturally, there were still some comments from people who resist thinking critically, but feel entitled to engage, anyway. Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 15 Feb. 2026 The city of Atlanta has terminated its contract with the former municipal clerk hired in 2023 to help with the name verification process for the public safety training center referendum — an effort that never began, but paid former clerk Foris Webb III $910,000 anyway. Riley Bunch, AJC.com, 14 Feb. 2026 George, on holiday from Athens, is middle-aged and hopelessly uncool, but Edward likes him anyway. Damon Wise, Deadline, 14 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for anyway

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of anyway was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Anyway.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anyway. Accessed 18 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

anyway

adverb
any·​way ˈen-ē-ˌwā How to pronounce anyway (audio)
: anyhow

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