dreary

UK: ˈdrɪəri | US: ˈdrɪri

Definition

  1. adj. dull, bleak, and lifeless; depressing

  2. adj. causing sadness or gloom

Structure
drear <gloomy>y <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "dreary" originates from Old English drēorig, meaning "bloody, grievous," derived from drēor (blood), likely due to the association of blood with suffering or sorrow. Over time, the meaning shifted from literal bloodiness to figurative gloominess or melancholy. The suffix "-y" was added to form the adjective, solidifying its modern sense of dullness or sadness.

Examples

  1. The dreary weather made everyone feel lethargic.

  2. She walked through the dreary, abandoned streets at night.

  3. His speech was so dreary that half the audience fell asleep.

  4. The novel’s dreary tone reflected the protagonist’s despair.

  5. Winter can feel especially dreary without sunlight.