Definition

Relating to the grim or ghastly aspects of death and decay, often evoking horror or a sense of the macabre.

Example

The movie was filled with macabre scenes that left the audience feeling uneasy.

Conversation

Have you seen that new horror movie everyone's talking about?

Yeah, it was quite macabre, especially the ending.

I heard it has some really gruesome scenes in it.

Definitely! It really plays on the fear of death and decay.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Macabre → The word 'macabre' is derived from the Old French 'macabre', which is thought to relate to 'Danse Macabre' (Dance of Death), a medieval allegory on the universality of death. The term is associated with the grim and morbid aspects of death and decay.

Memory Tip

Imagine a dance that symbolizes death, which helps you remember that 'macabre' refers to something that is grim or related to death.

Visually Confused Words