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Lurid: meaning, definitions and examples

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lurid

 

[ ˈlʊərɪd ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

descriptive language

The term 'lurid' is often used to describe something that is shocking, sensational, or vividly intense, especially in a way that is intended to provoke or disturb. It can refer to content that is excessively graphic, such as horror films or sensational news stories. Additionally, 'lurid' suggests a brightness that may be garish or unpleasant, metaphorically illuminating something in a way that draws attention yet may also repulse. In literature, a 'lurid' description can evoke strong emotions from the reader and often deals with themes that are considered taboo.

Synonyms

graphic, gruesome, sensational, shocking, vivid

Examples of usage

  • The film was criticized for its lurid depictions of violence.
  • She avoided the lurid tabloids that reported scandalous gossip.
  • His lurid imagination led to stories that were both fascinating and terrifying.

Translations

Translations of the word "lurid" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lúgubre

🇮🇳 भद्दा

🇩🇪 grässlich

🇮🇩 menyeramkan

🇺🇦 жахливий

🇵🇱 straszny

🇯🇵 恐ろしい

🇫🇷 lurid

🇪🇸 lúgubre

🇹🇷 dehşet verici

🇰🇷 소름끼치는

🇸🇦 مرعب

🇨🇿 hrozný

🇸🇰 hrozný

🇨🇳 可怕的

🇸🇮 grozljiv

🇮🇸 hræðileg

🇰🇿 қорқынышты

🇬🇪 საშინელი

🇦🇿 dəhşətli

🇲🇽 lúgubre

Etymology

The word 'lurid' originated from the Latin word 'luridus', which means 'pale' or 'wan'. It was introduced into the English language in the 19th century, where it started to take on the connotations we associate with it today, particularly in relation to vivid and shocking imagery. Over time, 'lurid' has evolved to describe anything that is glaringly bright or shocking, often used in the context of sensationalized media. The use of 'lurid' can also imply a moral judgment, suggesting that the shocking content is not only bright in color or imagery but also potentially inappropriate or distasteful.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,483, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.