Definitions

deadly

[ded-lee] / ˈdɛd li /

ADJECTIVE

causing end of life

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bloody carcinogenic cruel dangerous destructive fatal harmful lethal malignant mortal murderous noxious pernicious poisonous savage suicidal toxic violent virulent

WEAK

baleful baneful bloodthirsty cannibalistic death-dealing deathly deleterious destroying grim homicidal injurious internecine killing mortiferous pestiferous pestilent pestilential ruthless slaying unrelenting venomous

Antonyms

STRONGEST

benign calm gentle harmless healthy helpful kind life-giving nice nonpoisonous wholesome

WEAK

animating energizing healthful invigorating lively

ADJECTIVE

ghostly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ghastly

WEAK

ashen corpselike dead deadened deathful deathlike deathly pallid wan white

Antonyms

WEAK

animating energizing harmless healthful healthy invigorating lively wholesome

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Heat waves are becoming more common in Europe—this week’s is the second in two months—and deadly.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 26, 2026

Prosecutors said the Lachman fire smoldered underground for a week before exploding into the deadly Palisades fire.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 25, 2026

Police in Kenya have sealed off key roads leading into central Nairobi ahead of planned nationwide protests marking two years since the deadly Gen-Z-led anti-government demonstrations.

From BBC • Jun. 25, 2026

There has been concern that the deadly disease could add to the extinction risks faced by Australian fauna, many of which are unique to the vast continent.

From Barron's • Jun. 24, 2026

But there was a deadly serious insight buried within the comedy.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

deadly

Example Sentences

Related Words