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.

He has completed two missions aboard the International Space Station and carried out complex spacewalks, including one that could have turned deadly when his helmet began filling with water.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

This organism can cause a rare but extremely deadly brain infection when contaminated water enters the nose, often during swimming or other recreational water activities.

From Science Daily • Jun. 6, 2026

The same satellites used to monitor illegal fishing and update Google Maps have found a new and deadly application.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

Erickson, 58, was in a separate SUV ahead of Grossman’s vehicle and also was negligent in the deadly crash, the jury found.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

Staphylococci bacteria are the other half of the deadly duo of opportunistic bacteria.

From "Phineas Gage" by John Fleischman

deadly

Example Sentences

Related Words