English Lexicon

Dismal

/ˈdɪz.məl/
adjectiveCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As adjective
  1. 1

    Depressing; dreary.

    "The weather was dismal, with constant rain and gray skies."
  2. 2

    Causing a mood of gloom or depression.

    "The dismal news about the economy left everyone feeling hopeless."

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Synonyms (3)
Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'dismal' originates from the Latin 'dies mali', meaning 'bad days'. It entered Middle English in the 14th century, evolving to describe gloomy or dreary conditions, both literally and figuratively.

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