dismal

Part of Speech: Adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈdɪzməl/

Definitions

• Causing or showing sadness, gloom, or misery.
• Lacking merit, particularly in performance or quality.
• Characterized by dullness or bleakness.

Usage Examples

• The weather was dismal throughout the week.
• His dismal performance disappointed the entire team.
• The room had a dismal atmosphere with its dim lighting.
• The company's dismal sales results led to layoffs.

Etymology

Derived from Middle English dismal, from Anglo-Norman dis mal, meaning "unlucky day," from Latin dies mali ("evil days").

Synonyms

• Gloomy
• Bleak
• Depressing
• Melancholy
• Desolate

Antonyms

• Cheerful
• Bright
• Hopeful
• Optimistic
• Joyful

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈdɪzməl/
• American English: /ˈdɪzməl/
• Indian English: /ˈdɪzməl/

Historical Usage

In medieval times, the term was often associated with unlucky or inauspicious days, particularly in astrology.

Cultural Nuances

Different cultures associate dismal conditions with varying emotional and spiritual beliefs, such as bad omens or melancholic environments.

More Information

The word "dismal" has been used in literature and poetry to convey deep sadness, despondency, or somber imagery, often reflecting nature or psychological states.