Langimage
English

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