downright

²downright

adj

Definition of DOWNRIGHT

1

archaic : directed vertically downward

2

: outright, thorough <a downright lie>

3

: plain, blunt <stories he had heard of her downright tongue — Angus Wilson>

— down·right·ly adverb

— down·right·ness noun

Examples of DOWNRIGHT

1. <rural folks are often known for their downright speech, as they are generally not ones to beat around the bush>
2. <that's a downright lie, and you know it>

First Known Use of DOWNRIGHT

1530

Related to DOWNRIGHT

Synonyms: abrupt, bluff, brusque (also brusk), crusty, curt, blunt, short, short-spoken, snippy, unceremonious

Antonyms: circuitous, mealymouthed

Related Words: gruff, rough, snappish; candid, direct, forthright, foursquare, frank, free-spoken, open, outspoken, plain, plainspoken, point-blank, straightforward, straight-out; artless, discourteous, disrespectful, impertinent, impolite, inconsiderate, insensitive, rude, tactless, undiplomatic; brief, closemouthed, laconic, reserved, reticent, terse, tight-lipped; earnest, honest, sincere; coarse, crass, crude, low, uncouth, vulgar

Near Antonyms: civil, considerate, courteous, diplomatic, gracious, polite, politic, smooth, suave, tactful; loquacious, talkative, voluble; long-winded, prolix, verbose; courtly, cultivated, gallant, genteel, polished, refined

see all synonyms and antonyms

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