Definition

Causing a strong feeling of shock or disgust, often because of something violent or horrifying.

Example

The movie was so gruesome that many people left the theater feeling sick.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new horror movie everyone's talking about?

Yeah, I've heard it's pretty gruesome but really well made.

I don't know if I can handle something that gruesome!

You might be surprised; sometimes the story makes it worth it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gruesome is formed from "grue" (from Old French *grue*, meaning to shudder or tremble) and the suffix "-some" (meaning characterized by or causing). The word describes something that causes shuddering or horror, often due to its shocking or disturbing nature.

Memory Tip

Think of something that makes you 'shudder' ('grue') and is 'characterized by' horror ('-some'). This helps you remember that 'gruesome' refers to something that causes a feeling of horror.

Visually Confused Words