tarnal

adverb (or adjective)

tar·​nal

ˈtärnᵊl,

ˈtȧn-

dialectal

: damned

—used as a mild imprecation

paid a tarnal high price for it

—C. G. Loomis

fire is a cruel, tarnal thing

—Conrad Richter

tarnally

-ᵊlē

-ᵊli

adverb dialectal

Word History

Etymology

alteration of eternal

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Rhymes for tarnal

• carnal
• charnel
• darnel