Want to say ghastly differently? Here are other words for ghastly and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of ghastly
The primary meaning of the word "ghastly" is extremely shocking or frightening.
Etymology of ghastly
The word "ghastly" has its roots in Old English "gāst" meaning breath or spirit, and the suffix "-ly" which forms an adjective
Originally, the word meant "full of spirit" or "spirited", but over time it evolved to mean "frightening" or "shocking"
Synonyms
gruesome
horrific
frightful
terrifying
appalling
awful
dreadful
fearful
ghastful
hideous
horrible
horrific
macabre
monstrous
repellent
repulsive
repugnant
shocking
sickening
spine-chilling
gruesome
heinous
abhorrent
odious
detestable
despicable
disgusting
disturbing
eerie
fearsome
formidable
gruesome
harrowing
haunting
horrific
intimidating
lurid
nauseating
nightmarish
petrifying
unsettling
vile
woeful
Definitions
- Causing a feeling of great horror or shock
- Unpleasantly or unnaturally pale, as if due to illness or fear
- Frightening or shocking, often in a way that is considered entertaining or amusing
Usage Examples
- The ghastly sight of the abandoned asylum sent shivers down her spine
- The movie was so ghastly that I had to cover my eyes during some scenes
- The ghastly smell of rotting food filled the entire kitchen