The dismal definition is depressingly bleak or gloomy, lacking brightness or cheerfulness, and characterized by a sense of sorrow, sadness, or desolation.
History of the Word Dismal
Historical Usage
Historically, dismal was used to describe situations, places, or weather conditions that inspired gloominess or sadness. In literature, it was employed to create a somber and melancholic atmosphere. Notably, the Dismal Swamp in the southeastern United States was named for its dark and foreboding appearance.
Modern Usage
In modern language, dismal continues to convey a sense of gloom, darkness, or hopelessness. It is used to describe anything that lacks brightness or cheerfulness, including weather, prospects, or moods.
English (Dismal As Adjective)
Etymology
Dismal originates from the Middle French disme, meaning evil or wretched.
Pronunciation
Pronounced: /ˈdɪzməl/.
Forms of Dismal
| Adjective | dismal |
| Comparative Degree | more dismal |
| Superlative Degree | most dismal |
| Adverb | dismally |
| Noun | dismalness |
Derived Terms
- Dismally
- Dismalness
Translations
- Spanish: sombrío
- French: morne
- German: düster
- Italian: cupo
- Portuguese: sombrio
- Russian: мрачный (mrachnyy)
- Chinese (Simplified): 阴沉的 (yīnchén de)
- Japanese: 陰鬱な (in’utsu na)
- Hindi: उदास (udaas)
- Urdu: اداس (udaas)
Synonyms
- Bleak
- Dreary
- Grim
- Cheerless
- Somber
- Depressing
- Sorrowful
- Melancholy
- Forlorn
- Gloomy
Antonyms
- Cheerful
- Bright
- Lively
- Joyful
- Optimistic
- Pleasant
- Sunny
- Upbeat
- Radiant
- Happy
Examples Sentences
- The weather turned dismal with heavy rain.
- The news about the job cuts was truly dismal.
- His old abandoned house had a dismal atmosphere.
Dismal Practical Uses
- Weather Outlook
- Financial Report
- Mood Indicator
- Performance Review
- Film Review
- Economic Forecast
- Test Results
- Real Estate Market
- Job Prospects
- Health Update
FAQs (People May Also Ask)
Q: What is a dismal definition?
Ans: Dismal describes something causing gloom, depression, or despair; it lacks brightness, cheerfulness, or hope.
Q: Can dismal be used as a noun?
Yes, dismalness is the noun form, referring to the quality or state of being dismal.
Q: What’s the adverb form of dismal?
Ans: The adverb form is dismal, used to describe how something is done dismally.
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