Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈdrɛdfʊl/

Definitions

• As an adjective: Causing fear, shock, or dread; very bad or unpleasant.
• Extremely bad or unpleasant in nature, quality, or appearance.
• Intense or extreme in degree, often to the point of being overwhelming.

Usage Examples

• "The dreadful noise kept everyone awake all night." (Meaning terrible, disturbing)
• "She had a dreadful time at the party, feeling out of place." (Meaning unpleasant)
• "The dreadful storm caused significant damage to the coastal town." (Meaning disastrous)

Etymology

From Middle English "dredful," derived from Old English "dreogan" (to endure, suffer, or fear) and the suffix "-ful" meaning "full of" or "characterized by." The word has evolved to mean something that inspires fear or is of a very negative nature. It has been used in English since the late 14th century.

Synonyms

• Terrible
• Appalling
• Horrible
• Frightening
• Awful
• Shocking
• Atrocious

Antonyms

• Wonderful
• Pleasant
• Enjoyable
• Delightful
• Attractive
• Praiseworthy

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The word "dreadful" has few regional variations, but in some accents, the pronunciation may emphasize the first syllable (dred-ful) or slightly alter the vowel sound. In non-rhotic accents (such as in parts of the UK), the "r" sound may be less pronounced, making the pronunciation closer to "dred-ful."

Historical Usage

The word "dreadful" has been used in English since the 14th century and originally meant "full of dread." Its meaning has evolved to encompass a broader sense of extreme negativity, especially when describing something unpleasant or disturbing. It was used in a more formal sense in earlier periods but is now commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

Cultural Nuances

The term "dreadful" has cultural significance in many contexts, especially in literature and horror genres. In classic Gothic novels, "dreadful" is often used to describe the terrifying or gruesome elements of a story. In modern usage, the word is used less dramatically but still conveys a strong sense of negativity or unpleasantness, especially when referring to something that causes distress or discomfort.

More Information

The word "dreadful" is used frequently to express a highly negative reaction to something, whether it's a situation, experience, or event. It is often used to amplify the intensity of the negative emotion involved, whether in casual conversation or more serious discourse. While it often describes something horrible or frightening, it can also be used for hyperbole, as in situations that may not be genuinely terrifying but are perceived as such due to personal feelings or dramatic expression.