Langimage
English

infernal

|in/fer/nal|

C1

🇺🇸

/ɪnˈfɜrnəl/

🇬🇧

/ɪnˈfɜːnəl/

hellish or troublesome

Etymology
Etymology Information

'infernal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'infernalis,' where 'inferus' meant 'below.'

Historical Evolution

'infernalis' transformed into the Old French word 'infernal,' and eventually became the modern English word 'infernal' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'pertaining to the lower regions,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'relating to hell or extremely troublesome.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

relating to or characteristic of hell or the underworld.

The infernal heat of the desert was unbearable.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

extremely troublesome or annoying.

The infernal noise from the construction site kept me awake all night.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/07 01:04