Definition

In a way that is very frightening or unpleasant, like a nightmare.

Example

The movie was nightmarishly scary, leaving the audience in shock.

Conversation

I had a dream last night that was nightmarishly scary.

Oh no! What happened in it?

I was being chased by this giant monster that kept getting closer.

That sounds terrifying! I hate dreams like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nightmarishly → It is formed from "nightmare" (from Old English *nīhtmære*, meaning a bad dream) and the suffix "-ishly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "nightmarishly" describes something that is done in a manner reminiscent of a nightmare, often implying something frightening or distressing.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'nightmare' as a bad dream, and remember that 'nightmarishly' means something that feels like it comes from a bad dream.

Visually Confused Words