Meaning & Definition of word "Deathly"
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Deathly
/ˈdɛθli/
adjective:
- 1. Of or resembling death; lacking in energy or vitality; lifeless.
- Example: He fell into a deathly silence after hearing the bad news.
- 2. Causing death or extreme fear; deadly.
- Example: The deathly chill in the air warned them of the approaching storm.
- 3. Very pale; ashen.
- Example: She had a deathly pallor after spending the night in the cold.
Etymology
Middle English, from 'deþ' (death) + '-ly' (like).
Common Phrases and Expressions
deathly silence:
A silence that is so profound it feels oppressive, often associated with fear.
deathly pale:
Describes a very pale complexion, typically as a result of shock or illness.
deathly calm:
An eerie sense of calmness that follows panic or chaos.
Related Words
dead:
No longer alive; lifeless.
deceased:
No longer living; dead.
mortuary:
A place where dead bodies are kept before burial.
Slang Meanings of deathly
Meaning: Extremely unappealing or boring.
Example Sentence: That party was deathly; I couldn't wait to leave.
Meaning: Used to exaggerate the intensity of something.
Example Sentence: That movie was deathly good, I loved it!