ABYSSAL

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does abyssal mean? 

• ABYSSAL (adjective)
  The adjective ABYSSAL has 2 senses:

1. relating to ocean depths from 2000 to 5000 meters

2. resembling an abyss in depth; so deep as to be unmeasurable

  Familiarity information: ABYSSAL used as an adjective is rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• ABYSSAL (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Relating to ocean depths from 2000 to 5000 meters

Classified under:

Relational adjectives (pertainyms)

Pertainym:

abyssal zone (the deep sea (2000 meters or more) where there is no light)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Resembling an abyss in depth; so deep as to be unmeasurable

Synonyms:

abysmal; abyssal; unfathomable

Context example:

the abyssal depths of the ocean

Similar:

deep (having great spatial extension or penetration downward or inward from an outer surface or backward or laterally or outward from a center; sometimes used in combination)

Derivation:

abyss (a bottomless gulf or pit; any unfathomable (or apparently unfathomable) cavity or chasm or void extending below (often used figuratively))