dismal
UK: ˈdɪzməl | US: ˈdɪzməl
adj. causing gloom or depression; dreary
adj. characterized by ineptness or lack of inspiration; feeble
dismal = dis<negative prefix> + mal<bad>
- dis (negative prefix, from Latin dis-, implying reversal or absence)
- mal (bad, from Latin malus, meaning "bad" or "evil")
Etymology Origin:
The word "dismal" originated in Middle English from the Anglo-Norman phrase dis mal ("evil days"), referring to two unlucky days in each month marked in medieval calendars. Over time, it generalized to describe anything gloomy or depressing. The Latin roots dis- (negative) and malus (bad) reinforce the sense of misfortune or dreariness.
The weather was so dismal that we canceled our picnic.
His dismal performance in the exam surprised everyone.
The room’s dismal lighting made it feel unwelcoming.
She gave a dismal sigh as she looked at the unfinished work.
The team’s dismal record this season disappointed their fans.