grim

adjective \ˈgrim\

: unpleasant or shocking to see or think about

: causing feelings of sadness or worry : gloomy or depressing

: having a very serious appearance or manner

grim·mergrim·mest

Full Definition of GRIM

: fierce in disposition or action : savage

a : stern or forbidding in action or appearance <a grim taskmaster>

: ghastly, repellent, or sinister in character <a grim tale>

: unflinching, unyielding <grim determination>

— grim·ly adverb

— grim·ness noun

See grim defined for English-language learners

See grim defined for kids

Middle English, from Old English grimm; akin to Old High German grimm fierce, Greek chremetizein to neigh

First Known Use: before 12th century

Synonyms: austere, dour, fierce, flinty, forbidding, gruff, intimidating, lowering (also louring), rough, rugged, severe, stark, steely, stern, ungentle

GRIM Defined for Kids

adjective \ˈgrim\

grim·mergrim·mest

: ¹savage 2, cruel

: harsh in action or appearance : stern <a grim look>

: gloomy 3, dismal <grim news>

: showing firmness and seriousness <grim determination>

: frightful 1 <a grim tale>

— grim·ly adverb

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