Need another word for Bleak? Use these synonyms of Bleak from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
barren
desolate
gloomy
dismal
dreary
harsh
unforgiving
austere
stark
grim
somber
mournful
dismal
depressing
discouraging
hopeless
cheerless
joyless
comfortless
cold
unfriendly
inhospitable
bleakly
barrenly
harshly
bitterly
cruelly
brutally
ruthlessly
mercilessly
pitilessly
unrelentingly
sternly
severely
grimly
somberly
gloomily
drearily
dismally
Meaning of Bleak
The primary meaning of the word "Bleak" is having a harsh and unforgiving quality, either literally in terms of weather or figuratively in terms of atmosphere or prospects.
Definitions
- Having a harsh and unforgiving quality, especially in relation to weather or environment
- * Lacking in comfort, cheer, or warmth, making something seem cold and unpleasant
- * (Of a situation or prospect) unlikely to improve or have a favorable outcome
Etymology of Bleak
The word "Bleak" originates from Old English "blæc," which means "pale" or "shining," but its modern meaning is more closely related to the Old Norse "bleikr," meaning "shining" or "pale," which later evolved to connote a sense of harshness or desolation.
Example Uses
- The landscape was bleak and barren after the fire.
- * The future looks bleak for the company after the financial crisis.
- * The weather was bleak and cold, with a harsh wind blowing across the fields.
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
pleasant
warm
welcoming
hospitable
friendly
cheerful
optimistic
hopeful
promising
encouraging
comforting
joyful
lush
verdant
vibrant
thriving
prosperous
favorable
positive
sunny
bright
mild
balmy
pleasant
agreeable
delightful