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ghastly

horrific / hideous / pale / shocking
Adjective

This term evokes a visceral reaction of shock or repulsion. When describing a scene or event, it suggests a level of horror that is physically overwhelming or morbid, often associated with death or severe injury. In a more casual or aesthetic sense, it describes something so tasteless or jarring that it becomes offensive to the senses. It also captures a specific physical appearance of pallor, where a person looks drained of life due to extreme terror or sudden illness.

Meanings

Adjective

causing great horror or fear; frightful.

"The scene of the accident was truly ghastly."

Adjective

extremely unpleasant, shocking, or disagreeable.

"The hotel room was decorated in a ghastly shade of orange."

Adjective

looking pale and sickly, as if from shock or illness.

"He had a ghastly expression on his face after hearing the news."

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Last Updated: June 14, 2026Report an Error