grim
UK: ɡrɪm | US: ɡrɪm
adj. harsh, stern, or forbidding in appearance or manner
adj. causing fear or dread; ominous
adj. unrelenting; severe
The word "grim" traces back to Old English grimm, meaning "fierce, cruel, or savage," and is related to Old High German grimm (angry) and Old Norse grimmr (harsh). Its Proto-Germanic root grimmaz conveyed intensity, often tied to anger or terror. Over time, "grim" evolved to describe not just ferocity but also a bleak, unyielding quality—reflecting its modern associations with severity and foreboding.
The soldier's grim expression revealed the gravity of the situation.
The forecast painted a grim picture of the coming storm.
She faced the challenge with grim determination.
The old castle had a grim atmosphere, steeped in legends of tragedy.
His voice was grim as he delivered the bad news.