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Deadlier Meaning: Definition and Examples

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deadlier

[ˈdΙ›dliΙ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

degree of danger

Deadlier is a comparative form of the adjective 'deadly', meaning more capable of causing death or significant harm. It can refer to anything that represents a greater threat compared to something else. This term is often used in discussions about diseases, weapons, or even competitive scenarios where the stakes are life-threatening. It implies an increase in lethality or seriousness.

Synonyms

more dangerous, more fatal, more lethal.

Examples of usage

  • The virus proved deadlier than its predecessor.
  • This weapon is deadlier than the old model.
  • The new strain of the pathogen feels deadlier.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In classic literature, the concept of something being deadlier often appears in tales of conflict and survival.
  • Shakespeare's works contain references where the consequences of actions are described as deadlier than imagined, hinting at tragic outcomes.
  • In horror novels, creatures described as deadlier can evoke fear and tension, amplifying the stakes within the story.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people tend to overestimate threats, often viewing them as deadlier based on emotional responses rather than factual risk.
  • Fear can amplify perceptions of danger, making certain situations seem deadlier than they may scientifically be.
  • Mental health issues can be considered deadlier in terms of their impact on individuals and society due to stigma and lack of understanding.

Environmental Impact

  • Certain species in nature are deemed deadlier due to their adaptations, such as poison or aggressive behavior, impacting biodiversity.
  • Environmental changes have led to deadlier conditions in habitats, affecting wildlife and increasing human-wildlife conflict.
  • Climate change contributes to deadlier natural events like floods and storms, altering ecosystems and human living conditions.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, villains are often portrayed as deadlier due to their cunning nature or advanced weaponry, making stories more thrilling.
  • Video games frequently pit players against deadlier foes as they advance, adding challenge and excitement to gameplay.
  • Lyrics in modern music sometimes refer to relationships as deadlier, highlighting emotional dangers and complexities.

Origin of 'deadlier'

Main points about word origin

  • The word is formed from 'deadly', which combines 'dead' meaning no life, with the suffix '-ier' to compare.
  • The roots of 'deadly' trace back to the Old English word 'deadlice', meaning fatal or deadly.
  • The comparative form 'deadlier' is often used to intensify the degree of danger in discussions about threats.

The word 'deadly' originates from the Middle English term 'dedli', which is a combination of 'dead' meaning without life, and the suffix '-ly', which forms adjectives. The earliest usages are found in texts dating back to the 14th century. The comparative form 'deadlier' was developed as language evolved to express varying degrees of danger or lethality. Its usage has grown with advancements in science and technology, particularly in medicine and weaponry, where differentiating levels of risk is essential. In modern English, 'deadly' has expanded beyond strict life-and-death scenarios and is often used metaphorically in contexts such as sports, competition, or even relationships to imply a high risk of significant harm or failure.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,692 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.