infernal
|in/fer/nal|
🇺🇸
/ɪnˈfɜrnəl/
🇬🇧
/ɪnˈfɜːnəl/
hellish or troublesome
Etymology
'infernal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'infernalis,' where 'inferus' meant 'below.'
'infernalis' transformed into the Old French word 'infernal,' and eventually became the modern English word 'infernal' through Middle English.
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.
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Adjective 2
extremely troublesome or annoying.
The infernal noise from the construction site kept me awake all night.
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Last updated: 2025/02/07 01:04