Definition

Having a very thin and pale appearance, often resembling a corpse.

Example

After weeks without food, he looked cadaverous and weak.

Conversation

Did you see that movie about the haunted house?

Yeah, it was so creepy! The main character had such a cadaverous look.

I know, right? It really added to the spooky atmosphere.

Totally! It made everything feel more intense.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cadaverous → It is formed from "cadaver" (from Latin "cadaver", meaning dead body) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of or having the quality of). The word "cadaverous" describes something that is like a corpse or has the qualities of a dead body, often implying a pale or emaciated appearance.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'cadaver' which means a dead body, and remember that 'cadaverous' describes something that resembles a corpse.

Visually Confused Words