Morbid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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morbid
[ˈmɔːrbɪd ]
Definitions
description of a state of mind or topic
characterized by an abnormal and unhealthy interest in disturbing and unpleasant subjects, especially death and disease
Synonyms
dark, ghoulish, gruesome, macabre.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| morbid |
Use this word when referring to an unhealthy interest in disturbing and unpleasant subjects, especially death and disease.
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| macabre |
Typically used to describe things that are grim, concerning the subject of death. It emphasizes the horror of death and what may happen after it in a mysterious or disturbing way.
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| gruesome |
This term is best used to describe something that causes horror and disgust, often related to violent or bloody events.
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| ghoulish |
Primarily used when referring to something that resembles or relates to ghouls (evil spirits or reanimated corpses) and has a negative connotation. It's often used to describe a fascination with death or the macabre in a grotesque or obscene manner.
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| dark |
This word is applicable in a wide range of situations, from describing the absence of light to more metaphorical uses, such as mood, tone, or themes that are grim, sinister, or pessimistic.
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Examples of usage
- He had a morbid fascination with horror movies.
- She has a morbid sense of humor.
- His morbid curiosity led him to explore the abandoned hospital.
- The morbid atmosphere of the graveyard sent shivers down her spine.
- The painting depicted a morbid scene of decay and despair.
related to physical conditions
suggesting an unhealthy mental state or attitude
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| morbid |
Best used to describe something that is disturbing, gruesome, or related to death. Often used in a negative context.
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| unhealthy |
Used to describe something that is not good for your health, whether it be a physical condition, habit, or food.
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| obese |
Used to describe someone who has an excessive amount of body fat. This term is often used in medical and clinical settings and can carry a negative connotation.
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| overweight |
Refers to someone who weighs more than what is generally considered healthy for their height. It's a less harsh term compared to 'obese'.
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Examples of usage
- The doctor noted a morbid obesity in the patient's medical records.
- His morbid obesity was a serious health concern.
- The morbid symptoms indicated a severe underlying condition.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Morbid curiosity refers to a fascination with topics that are taboo, scary, or involve death.
- Some psychological studies suggest that engaging with morbid themes can help people cope with their own fears about mortality.
- Many people are drawn to horror films and stories as a safe way to explore darker themes without real-life consequences.
Literature
- Morbid themes are often explored in Gothic literature, which emphasizes human emotion, death, and the supernatural.
- Authors like Edgar Allan Poe frequently incorporate morbid elements to evoke fear and explore human psychology.
- The term 'morbid nostalgia' reflects a longing for the past that can be associated with loss and death.
Pop Culture
- The 'morbid' aesthetic in pop culture can be seen in music genres like gothic rock and dark wave.
- Many popular TV shows and movies, such as 'The Addams Family', have a morbid humor style that presents death and darkness in a comedic way.
- Comic book characters like the Punisher and Deadpool often embrace morbid themes while fighting crime or confronting their own demons.
Science
- In medicine, 'morbid' is used to describe a condition that significantly affects health and can lead to serious complications.
- Morbid obesity is a term used when an individual has excessive body weight that impacts their health negatively.
- The term can also refer to any anatomical or physiological state that is unhealthy or diseased.
Origin of 'morbid'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'morbid' comes from the Latin 'morbidus', meaning 'sick' or 'diseased'.
- It was first used in English in the early 15th century, mostly to describe diseases and illness.
- Over time, its meaning expanded to cover anything dark or unsettling, including thoughts and feelings.
The word 'morbid' originated from the Latin word 'morbidus' which means 'diseased' or 'affected by disease'. It made its way into Middle English in the 17th century with the same medical connotation. Over time, the term expanded to encompass a broader range of meanings, including an obsession with death and a general sense of unease or gloominess.