Hell

Definition

Hell is a noun and an exclamation. As a noun, it refers to a place or state of punishment in the afterlife according to various religious beliefs, often depicted as a realm of suffering and torment. It can also mean an extremely unpleasant situation. As an exclamation, it expresses anger, surprise, or frustration.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Exclamation

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɛl/
• Respelling: HEL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɛl/
• Respelling: HEL

Etymology

The word "hell" originates from Old English "hel" or "helle," meaning "a netherworld of the dead," derived from Proto-Germanic "*haljō" (concealed place). Its roots trace back to Proto-Indo-European "*kel-" meaning "to cover or conceal."

Derivatives

• Hellish (adjective)
• Hellfire (noun)
• Hell-bent (adjective)
• Hellscape (noun)
• Hellhound (noun)

Synonyms

• Underworld
• Inferno
• Damnation

Antonyms

• Heaven
• Paradise
• Bliss

Usage

The noun "hell" is widely used in religious and metaphorical contexts, such as "He feared eternal hell" or "This traffic is pure hell." As an exclamation, it expresses strong emotion, as in "What the hell is going on?"

Related Terms

• Hades: A term for the underworld in Greek mythology.
• Purgatory: A place or state of temporary suffering or purification.
• Gehenna: A term in some religious texts synonymous with hell.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A place of eternal punishment in the afterlife: Describes the religious concept of hell.
  • Example: "Many cultures describe hell as a fiery abyss."
• An extremely unpleasant situation or experience: Refers to metaphorical use for hardship.
  • Example: "The long meeting was absolute hell."

Exclamation

• Used to express anger, frustration, or surprise: Commonly employed in informal speech.
  • Example: "What the hell just happened?"