abyssal
|a-byss-al|
C1
/əˈbɪsəl/
deep ocean
Etymology
Etymology Information
'abyssal' originates from the Greek word 'abyssos,' where 'a-' meant 'without' and 'byssos' meant 'bottom.'
Historical Evolution
'abyssos' transformed into the Latin word 'abyssalis,' and eventually became the modern English word 'abyssal.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'bottomless,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'relating to the ocean depths.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to or denoting the depths or bottom of the ocean, typically below 2000 meters.
The abyssal zone is home to many unique marine species.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 2
immeasurably deep or great; profound.
The abyssal silence of the cave was overwhelming.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/02 11:06
