darkly
/ˈdɑːrkli/
ADVERB
1. With a dark appearance
In a manner that has little light, appears dim, or creates a dark visual impression.
1.1. Appearing dark or dimly illuminated
Describing the appearance of a place, object, or scene that is poorly illuminated or covered in darkness.
Synonyms
- dimly
- gloomily
- duskily
- blackly
- tenebrously
Antonyms
Examples
- The clouds gathered darkly on the horizon, foretelling an imminent storm.
- The mystery novel was filled with darkly atmospheric descriptions of the setting.
Related Words
- shadowily
- murkily
- cloudily
- shadily
- obscurely
ADVERB
2. Faintly seen in the dark
In a way that makes something visible only faintly or indistinctly, especially in conditions of darkness.
2.1. Being faintly or indistinctly visible
Describing something that can be seen only vaguely or with limited clarity because of darkness or poor visibility.
Synonyms
- dimly
- indistinctly
- vaguely
- hazily
Antonyms
- clearly
- brightly
- distinctly
Related Words
- obscurely
- shadowily
- murkily
- nebulously
ADVERB
3. In a morbid or sinister manner
In a way that suggests something disturbing, gloomy, cruel, or associated with unpleasant and troubling thoughts.
3.1. Expressing a gloomy or morbid attitude
Describing speech, behavior, or thoughts that convey sadness, despair, pessimism, or an unpleasant preoccupation with troubling subjects.
Synonyms
- gloomily
- morosely
- somberly
- sullenly
- dismally
- mournfully
- lugubriously
Antonyms
Examples
- He glanced darkly at his rival across the room.
- She spoke darkly of her troubled past, hinting at untold stories.
Related Words
- despondently
- disconsolately
- forlornly
- woefully
- pessimistically
ADVERB
4. Mysteriously or ominously
In a mysterious, threatening, or foreboding manner that suggests something unpleasant or dangerous may happen.
4.1. Speaking in a threatening or ominous manner
Describing speech or behavior that indirectly suggests danger, trouble, or an unsettling possibility.
Synonyms
- ominously
- forebodingly
- sinisterly
- menacingly
- grimly
Antonyms
- reassuringly
- cheerfully
- confidently
Examples
- She spoke darkly of her troubled past, hinting at untold stories.