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.

A rare strain of Ebola has reached territory controlled by Islamic State militants in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a place too dangerous for health workers fighting to stop the deadly virus.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

Left untreated, the infestation can be deadly, and the parasites can quickly spread.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 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

Pancreatic cancer is so deadly in part because there are no effective screening tests, and it rarely causes noticeable symptoms in its earliest stages.

From Science Daily • Jun. 4, 2026

“Sit back down immediately, and wait five minutes,” Aunt Kitty directed, her voice deadly.

From "The Detective's Assistant" by Kate Hannigan

deadly

Example Sentences

Related Words