Dark

Definition

Dark is an adjective and noun that generally refers to the absence of light, low illumination, or a condition with limited visibility. It can also mean something gloomy, mysterious, or foreboding, and in some contexts, it denotes a serious or pessimistic mood.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɑrk/
• Respelling: DARK

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɑːk/
• Respelling: DAHK

Etymology

The word "dark" originates from the Old English "deorc," meaning "obscure, gloomy, or dim." Its roots can be traced to Proto-Germanic "*derkaz," conveying a lack of light or clarity, and the term evolved to represent various aspects of obscurity or seriousness.

Derivatives

• Darkness (noun)
• Darken (verb)
• Darkly (adverb)
• Darkish (adjective)
• Darkened (adjective)

Synonyms

• Dim
• Gloomy
• Shadowy

Antonyms

• Bright
• Light
• Clear

Usage

The term "dark" is used to describe situations or settings with low light, as in "The room was dark after the lights went out." It can also refer to emotions or moods, such as "The novel had a dark tone."

Related Terms

• Shadow: A dark area or shape produced by an object coming between light and a surface.
• Dusk: The time of day immediately following sunset, characterized by low light.
• Night: The period from sunset to sunrise in each twenty-four hours.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Having little or no light: Describes a condition or area with limited illumination, often resulting in poor visibility.
  • Example: "The basement was dark and cold."
• Gloomy or somber in mood or appearance: Refers to a serious, melancholic, or unsettling quality.
  • Example: "The movie had a dark atmosphere."
• Having a deep or intense color: Used to describe shades or tones that are rich and lack brightness.
  • Example: "She wore a dark blue dress."

Noun

• The absence of light; darkness: Refers to a state or condition where light is significantly reduced or absent.
  • Example: "He couldn’t see anything in the dark."
• A time of difficulty or sadness: Used metaphorically to represent challenging or serious situations.
  • Example: "She went through a dark period in her life."