English · Adjectives
awful
/ˈɔːfʊl/
[/ˈɔːfʊl/]
very bad
Intermediateadjective
Definition
Very bad or unpleasant; causing dislike or shock.
Example
The food at that restaurant was awful, so we will certainly not return there.
The food at that restaurant was awful, so we will certainly not return there.
Etymology
From 'awe' plus '-ful', originally meaning 'inspiring awe'.
How & Where It’s Used
The meaning shifted from 'awe-inspiring' to simply 'very bad'.