Definition

Relating to or causing a deadly disease; harmful or annoying.

Example

The pestilential conditions in the area led to a rapid spread of illness.

Conversation

Have you heard about that pestilential smell coming from the old building?

Yeah, it’s really annoying! I can’t believe they haven’t done anything about it yet.

It’s so bad that it makes it hard to even walk by there.

I agree! They really need to address that issue before it gets worse.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pestilential → It is formed from "pestis" (meaning plague) and the suffix "-ential" (meaning relating to). The word "pestilential" refers to something that is related to or characteristic of a plague, often implying something harmful or destructive.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pestis' which means plague, and remember that 'pestilential' describes something that relates to or is like a plague.

Visually Confused Words