English Reference
adjective · adverb · noun

damned

adj. · adv. · n.
US /ˈdæmd/ UK /dˈæmd/ damned

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate InformalVulgar

    adj.used to show you are very annoyed or to emphasize what you are saying.

    adj.used as an attributive intensifier to express frustration, contempt, or strong emphasis.

    Simple

    I can't get this damned computer to start properly.

    In context

    He spent the entire afternoon trying to fix that damned leak in the roof, only to find the pipe was completely rusted through.

    Usage

    Usually placed immediately before the noun it modifies.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced InformalVulgar

    adv.used to mean 'very' when you want to sound strong or angry.

    adv.functioning as an intensifier meaning 'extremely' or 'very'.

    Simple

    It is damned hard to find a good job these days.

    In context

    The climb was damned difficult, but the view from the summit made every painful step worth the effort.

    Usage

    Modifies adjectives or other adverbs.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency FormalLiterary Religion

    adj.sent to hell or punished by God forever.

    adj.condemned by God to suffer eternal punishment in hell.

    Simple

    The old stories tell of damned souls wandering the dark forest.

    In context

    The poet depicted the damned spirits as being trapped in a frozen lake, forever separated from the light of heaven.

    doomedlostaccursed
  4. 04 C2 Proficiency FormalLiterary Religion

    n.people who are believed to be punished in hell forever.

    n.those who are condemned to eternal punishment.

    Simple

    The painting showed the angels above and the damned below.

    In context

    In many traditional depictions of the Last Judgment, the damned are shown being led away by shadows while the righteous ascend.

    Usage

    Usually functions as a collective noun with 'the'.

    the lost
    the saved

One must never complain because it’s part of the adventure.” Almodóvar shows no evidence of slowing down, deafness and styes be damned.

The Guardian· 21 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C2 · Proficiency
Frequency Frequent
Updated