Horrible

Definition

Horrible is an adjective that describes something extremely unpleasant, dreadful, or shocking. It often conveys a strong negative emotion such as fear, disgust, or distress.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɔːr.ə.bəl/ or /ˈhɑːr.ə.bəl/
• Respelling: HOR-uh-buhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɒr.ɪ.bəl/
• Respelling: HOR-ih-buhl

Etymology

The word "horrible" originates from Middle English, derived from the Latin "horribilis," meaning "dreadful" or "terrible," which comes from "horrēre," meaning "to shudder" or "to bristle."

Derivatives

• Horribly (adverb)
• Horrid (adjective)
• Horrific (adjective)
• Horror (noun)
• Horrendous (adjective)

Synonyms

• Terrible
• Dreadful
• Awful

Antonyms

• Wonderful
• Delightful
• Pleasant

Usage

The term "horrible" is commonly used to describe negative experiences or emotions. For example, "The weather was horrible all week," or "He made a horrible mistake."

Related Terms

• Horror: A feeling of fear or disgust.
• Terrifying: Extremely frightening.
• Repulsive: Arousing intense distaste or disgust.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Extremely unpleasant or shocking: Refers to something that causes great discomfort or distress.
  • Example: "The food was horrible and inedible."
• Causing fear or disgust: Describes something that arouses intense negative emotions.
  • Example: "The movie was too horrible to watch."
• Very poor or bad: Used informally to describe substandard quality.
  • Example: "He has a horrible sense of direction."