Morbid

/ˈmɔːr.bɪd/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
characterized by an abnormal and unhealthy interest in disturbing and unpleasant subjects, especially death and disease.
She had a morbid fascination with horror films and true crime stories.
related to or characterized by disease or illness.
The doctor was concerned about the morbid condition of the patient's lungs.
causing or characterized by an abnormal mental state.
His morbid thoughts often disturbed his family and friends.
suggestive of an unhealthy mental state or attitude.
The author's morbid sense of humor was evident in every line of the novel.

Etymology

From Latin 'morbidus' meaning 'diseased', from 'mors' meaning 'death'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

morbid curiosity
An excessive interest in disturbing or unpleasant subjects.
morbidly obese
Referring to an individual who is excessively overweight to the point of being at risk for health complications.

Related Words

mortality
The state of being subject to death.
morbidity
The condition of being diseased or unhealthy.

Slang Meanings

Used to describe someone who enjoys dark or creepy topics.
He's so morbid, he actually liked reading about serial killers.