Infernal Meaning and Definition
Infernal
Pronunciation
/ˈɪn.fər.nəl/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Hellish or demonic; evil or disastrous.
Examples
- The infernal heat was unbearable.
- The company’s infestation with rodents was an infernal problem.
Synonyms
- Fiendish
- Demoniac
Antonyms
- Heavenly
- Divine
Etymology
The word “infernal” comes from the Latin “infernal”, meaning “of or relating to hell”. It has been used in the English language since the 15th century.
Usage Notes
Infernal is often used to describe something that is extremely bad or unpleasant. It can also be used to describe something that is associated with hell or the devil.
Cultural References
Infernal has appeared in various forms of media, including films, literature, and music. For example, in the film “The Exorcist”, the character Regan MacNeil is described as being possessed by an “infernal spirit”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
There are no common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “infernal”. However, it can be used in idiomatic expressions such as “to go to hell in a handbasket”, which means to go to great trouble or effort to achieve something.
Related Words or Phrases
- Diabolical
- Satanic
- Hellish
Collocations
- Infernal heat
- Infernal inferno
- Infernal torture
Frequency of Use
Infernal is a relatively uncommon word, but it has been used in a variety of contexts throughout history.
Common Misspellings
- Infernal is often misspelled as “infretnal”.