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Deathly: meaning, definitions and examples

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deathly

 

[ˈdΙ›ΞΈli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

adj. extreme

Deathly describes something that is extremely quiet, lifeless, or resembling death. It can refer to a state or condition that is profoundly still or void of life.

Synonyms

chilling, gloomy, lifeless, silent.

Examples of usage

  • The room fell into a deathly silence after the announcement.
  • She wore a deathly pale expression after hearing the news.
  • The deathly chill in the air signaled the arrival of winter.
Context #2 | Adverb

adv. almost dead

Deathly can also be used as an adverb to describe something done in a manner that is extremely intense or severe, often suggesting a sense of dread or finality.

Synonyms

extremely, intensely, profoundly, remarkably.

Examples of usage

  • He spoke deathly quiet, as if afraid to disturb the grave.
  • The atmosphere in the theater was deathly calm before the show began.
  • The wind howled deathly across the empty fields.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'deathly' originates from the Old English 'deÑð,' meaning the state of being dead.
  • It combines 'death' with the suffix '-ly,' which describes how something is like or related to death.
  • The earliest recorded use of 'deathly' dates back to the 14th century in English literature.

Literature

  • Deathly imagery is commonly used in Gothic literature, enhancing mood and suspense with themes of mortality.
  • In Shakespeare's works, deathly descriptions often foreshadow tragic events or character fates.
  • Modern fantasy books may depict deathly creatures, like ghosts or zombies, to create tension and explore themes of fear.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and shows often use 'deathly' to create eerie atmospheres, such as 'Deathly Hallows' in the Harry Potter series, emphasizing the danger of death.
  • The song 'Deathly Hallows,' referring to powerful objects, also reflects how the concept of death impacts storytelling in popular media.
  • Video games frequently use deathly themes to engage players, featuring haunted settings or lethal challenges.

Psychology

  • Fear of death, known as thanatophobia, can impact individuals' mental health, leading to anxiety about life's fragility.
  • Deathly themes in art can provoke deep emotional responses, prompting reflections on existence and mortality.
  • Understanding the concept of death can help in personal growth, encouraging individuals to value life and relationships more deeply.

Science

  • In biology, the term may describe processes or organisms that indicate the end of life, such as decomposition.
  • Deathly pathogens, like bacteria or viruses, can trigger serious health risks, making understanding them crucial in medicine.
  • Research in neuroscience often explores how the fear of death influences human behavior and decision-making.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,451, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.