Definition of dreadful
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a : inspiring dread (see dread entry 2 sense 1a) : causing great and oppressive fear
a dreadful attack
2 : extremely bad, distasteful, unpleasant, or shocking
a dreadful idea a dreadful performance dreadful behavior The food was absolutely dreadful.
3 : extreme dreadful disorder
dreadful
nounDefinition of dreadful (Entry 2 of 2)
publishing
: a cheap and sensational (see sensational sense 2) story or periodical
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Time Traveler for dreadful
The first known use of dreadful was in the 13th century
See more words from the same century