Definition

The quality or state of being very shocking or frightening; something that causes horror or disgust.

Example

The ghastliness of the scene left everyone speechless.

Conversation

Did you hear about that haunted house everyone is talking about?

Yeah, I heard it's full of ghastliness and scary surprises.

I can't believe people actually pay to experience that kind of fear.

Right? It's fascinating how some people love the thrill of ghastliness!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ghastliness → It is formed from "ghast" (from Old English "gast", meaning ghost or spirit) and "-liness" (meaning the quality of). The word "ghastliness" refers to the quality of being ghostly or terrifying, evoking horror or dread.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'ghost' ('ghast') to remember that 'ghastliness' means the quality of being terrifying or eerie, like a ghost.

Visually Confused Words