WordGarden.iodamnably
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈæməbli/
US
Meanings
Adverb
extremely or annoyingly very; used as a profane intensifier
in a reprehensible or very bad way; can carry a profane tone
Beyond the definition
"Damnably" isn't usually about cursing someone – it's an old-fashioned way of saying very or extremely, often with a hint of annoyance. It often adds extra emphasis to a negative description. It suggests that something is not just bad, but really bad (and a bit frustrating). While it can sound like mild swearing in polite company today (it comes from using "damn" to mean "very"), it was once common enough to show up in older books. You might find a character describing a cold winter day as "damnably chilly" or a difficult task as "damnably complex."
"Damnably" is an adverb meaning extremely, very, or annoyingly – and it comes with a bit of historical baggage. Its roots lie in the once-common practice of using "damn" as a simple intensifier, much like "very" or "really." As a longer form, "damnably" can sound a little more old-fashioned while still conveying strong emphasis.
However, because of its origins, it's considered somewhat archaic and informal – you're unlikely to hear it in everyday conversation today. It's more often found in older literature, particularly from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Authors used it to add a touch of character or emphasize a particular feeling.
Think of it as a way to express exasperation. A character might say, "It was damnably difficult to convince him," meaning the task was incredibly challenging and frustrating. Or, "The weather was damnably cold," implying an intensely unpleasant chill.
While you could use it for humorous effect today (to sound deliberately old-fashioned), be aware that some people may still find it slightly offensive due to its connection to the word "damn." In modern speech it can also be used for a strong positive ("damnably clever"), but it still has that edge.
So, if you encounter "damnably" in a book, remember it's not necessarily a curse, but rather an old-fashioned way to say very with a touch of annoyance and a hint of history.
Examples
- 1
Everyday annoyance
This lock is damnably hard to open.
- Usagedamnably
a strong, slightly old-fashioned way to say "very," often with annoyance
- 2
Meeting
We were damnably late for the meeting.
- 3
Awkward silence
The room went damnably quiet after he mentioned her name.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- intolerably
- infuriatingly
- devilishly
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- damnably difficult
- damnably hard
- damnably expensive
Word family
Explore
- intensifier
- pejorative tone
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- damnablyadverb