Ghoulish: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is appropriate when referring to something that is morbidly fascinated with death or the macabre, often in a way that is disturbing or sickening.

• His ghoulish interest in crime scenes made everyone uncomfortable.
• The ghoulish decorations at the Halloween party were too much for some guests.

Suitable for describing something that is grim and horrifying because it is related to death or violence, often with a sense of eerie fascination.

• The museum's exhibit on ancient burial practices had a macabre atmosphere.
• His stories always had a macabre twist.

This word is best used when describing something that causes repulsion or horror due to its bloody, gory, and grotesque nature.

• The film was so gruesome that many in the audience had to look away.
• The police discovered a gruesome crime scene.

Used to describe something that is shockingly frightful or dreadful, often causing horror or intense fear.

• The accident left a ghastly scene on the highway.
• She turned ghastly white when she heard the terrible news.