downright 1 of 2

Definition of downrightnext
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downright

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adverb

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of downright
Adjective
The humidity becomes downright oppressive on Friday in the Philadelphia region and stays like that through the evening. Bill Kelly, CBS News, 12 June 2026 The superstar singer walked into Madison Square Garden Wednesday night for the Knicks-Spurs game wearing a shirt that expressed colorful allegiance to the New York team and downright affection for singer Stevie Nicks, one of her musical role models. Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 11 June 2026
Adverb
And on the other side of the ball, this defense has a chance to be downright vicious. Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 12 Aug. 2026 On the clock at Fox and Pearl, butcher and charcutier Guy Danforth prepares meats that may appear avant-garde or sound downright weird. Katelyn Umholtz, Kansas City Star, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for downright
Recent Examples of Synonyms for downright
Adjective
  • His Cubs tenure, however, came to an abrupt end in the middle of last season.
    Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • The actor has spoken about Brad’s untimely end — and his abrupt dismissal — in the past.
    Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 21 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • There was sheer joy — Warren Barton once instructed Keegan to perform press-ups on the touchline during a game at St James’ for calling a throw-in the wrong way.
    Michael Walker, New York Times, 22 Aug. 2026
  • Just across the street from the bus stop … lurks a deep drainage pool at the bottom of a sheer 12-foot drop from the street.
    AJ Willingham, AJC.com, 21 Aug. 2026
Adverb
  • Might be nice to reconnect; might also be absolutely diabolical running into each other in the crisps aisle at Waitrose.
    Lauren O’Neill, Vogue, 22 Aug. 2026
  • The service Professionalism comes with genuine warmth, cheerfulness, and a sense of people absolutely loving their jobs.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • There is no way to simulate it, and the report is blunt about why.
    Jon Markman, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026
  • As smartphones rolled, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms confronted Republican Rick Jackson outside the National Business League event with a blunt message.
    Greg Bluestein, AJC.com, 22 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Sweet, aromatic, and bubblegum pink, this playful cocktail is the utter definition of fun.
    Bradleigh Mobley, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 Aug. 2026
  • Soon, the horrifying virus is everywhere, and resulting scarcities of water, food, and medicine cause panic, which leads to false conspiracy theories, riots, and an utter collapse of social trust.
    The Week US, TheWeek, 19 Aug. 2026
Adverb
  • Dreamed up by Jelk, this scent incorporates vanilla planifolia that’s cold-soaked in alcohol for 21 days.
    Vogue, Vogue, 17 Aug. 2026
  • Its double-wall insulation can keep your drink cold overnight and, ultimately, for as long as 24 hours.
    Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 July 2026
Adjective
  • The rally was fueled partly by a short squeeze, with more than $4 billion in bearish crypto positions liquidated as prices rose.
    Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 25 Aug. 2026
  • The crowd points their phones at the pair, who are alternating between short dances, rhythmic movements, and striking poses.
    Mitchell McCluskey, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Our absolute priority right now is providing unwavering support to their families, friends and teammates during this devastating time.
    CBS News, CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Our absolute priority right now is providing unwavering support to their families, friends, and teammates during this devastating time.
    Jack Moore, ABC News, 21 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Downright.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/downright. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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