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deathly. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
deathly, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
deathly in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
deathly you have here. The definition of the word
deathly will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
deathly, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Etymology
From Middle English dethlich, from Old English dēaþlīċ, equivalent to death + -ly.
Pronunciation
Adjective
deathly (comparative deathlier or more deathly, superlative deathliest or most deathly)
- Appearing as though dead, or on the verge of death.
He has a deathly pallor.
1816 June – 1817 April/May (date written), [Mary Shelley], chapter VI, in Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus. , volume III, London: for Lackington, Hughes, Harding, Mavor, & Jones, published 1 January 1818, →OCLC, page 120:I rushed towards her, and embraced her with ardour; but the deathly languor and coldness of the limbs told me, that what I now held in my arms had ceased to be the Elizabeth whom I had loved and cherished.
- Deadly, fatal, causing death.
- Extreme.
He has a deathly fear of crocodiles.
Derived terms
Translations
Adverb
deathly (comparative more deathly, superlative most deathly)
- In a way that resembles death.
He was deathly pale.
- Extremely, dreadfully.
The water was deathly cold.
He was deathly afraid of crocodiles.