Morbid
Adjective
Definition: Characterized by an abnormal and unhealthy interest in disturbing and unpleasant subjects, such as death or disease.
Definition: Suggestive of or dealing with the grotesque or morose, often in an exaggerated or excessive way.
Synonyms: Macabre, Gruesome, Ghastly, Somber
Antonyms: Cheerful, Lighthearted, Optimistic
- She had a morbid fascination with crime scenes.
- The artist's paintings had a morbid quality, featuring decaying bodies and dark settings.
- Think of "morbid" as "more bid," representing a bid on something darker or more disturbing than usual.
- Remember that "morbid" sounds similar to "morose," which means gloomy or sullen.
Etymology:
Middle English (in the sense 'morally diseased'): from Latin morbidus 'diseased', from morbus 'disease'.
Historical Usage:The term has been used since Middle English and has retained its overall meaning throughout history.
Related Idioms:
"Morbid curiosity"
Explanation:A strong, often unhealthy, interest or fascination with gruesome or unpleasant subjects.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "morbid" with "morbidity".
Explanation:"Morbid" refers to an adjective describing the characteristics or interests related to disturbing or unpleasant matters, while "morbidity" refers to the actual occurrence or rate of disease or death.