DEADLY Meaning and
Definition
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Deadly is an adjective that describes something as capable of causing or resulting in death. It refers to an object, event, or condition that poses a serious threat to life or well-being. This term is commonly used to emphasize extreme danger or the potential for fatal consequences.
In the context of physical harm, deadly can denote an ability or power to cause severe injury or fatality. For example, a deadly weapon is one designed and intended to inflict serious harm, often leading to death. Similarly, a deadly disease refers to an illness or infection that has the potential to result in death if left untreated or poorly managed.
Beyond its literal association with death, deadly can also describe situations or actions that are severely harmful or destructive. This can refer to circumstances that are highly detrimental, influential, or irreversible. For instance, a deadly mistake may have disastrous consequences, leading to great harm or damage.
Additionally, the term deadly can be used metaphorically to convey a sense of extreme effectiveness, intensity, or accuracy. In this context, it emphasizes how effective or impactful something is, often implying that it is virtually unstoppable or remarkably efficient.
Overall, the word deadly serves as a potent descriptor, indicating that a person, thing, or occurrence is capable of causing death, producing grave consequences, or exhibiting high efficacy and impact.
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• That may occasion death; fatal; destructive.
• In a manner resembling death; mortally.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DEADLY
Etymology of DEADLY
The word "deadly" derives from the combination of the Old English terms "dēad" and "līċ".
The term "dēad" means "dead" or "death" in Old English and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic root "*daudaz", which also gave rise to similar words in various Germanic languages. In Middle English, "dēad" evolved into "ded" before finally adopting its current form.
The second component of "deadly", "līċ", comes from the Old English word for "body" or "corpse". It is related to the Old Norse term "līk" and is believed to have derived from the Proto-Germanic root "*likam", meaning "body" or "corpse".
Idioms with the word DEADLY
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deadly dull
The idiom "deadly dull" refers to something that is extremely boring or uninteresting. It implies that the subject or experience is so tedious that it feels lifeless or has a tendency to cause weariness.
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silent but deadly
The idiom "silent but deadly" typically refers to something or someone that is quiet or unassuming yet dangerous, harmful, or capable of causing significant damage or consequences. It can apply to various situations, such as a strong-smelling gas that is odorless but potentially harmful or a quiet person who unexpectedly exhibits meaningful or dangerous actions.
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female of the species is more deadly than the male
The idiom "female of the species is more deadly than the male" refers to the idea that women can often be more cunning, deceitful, or dangerous than men. It suggests that women possess a certain power or capability for manipulation that can be used to their advantage, making them more lethal or threatening in certain situations.
Similar spelling words for DEADLY
- deaden,
- deadlier,
- readily,
- daddy,
- dearly,
- doodle,
- dually,
- deeply,
- deathly,
- detail,
- daily,
- dead,
- deal,
- sadly,
- Dealt,
- dawdle,
- badly,
- deader,
- deftly.
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