Definition of "dismal" in English

adjective

1. Disastrous, calamitous.

2. Disappointingly inadequate.

   • He received a dismal compensation.

3. Causing despair; gloomy and bleak.

   • The storm made for a dismal weekend

4. Depressing, dreary, cheerless.

   • She was lost in dismal thoughts of despair

noun

1. (US, especially North Carolina, possibly dated) A dreary swamp in eastern North Carolina or Virginia in the United States.