# dimly

/ˈdɪmɫi/ (US) · /dˈɪmli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dimly
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

in a way that is not very bright or clear. You use it to describe light that is weak or a memory that is not sharp.

For teachers: in a manner that is faint, weak, or obscure. Often modifies verbs related to perception, such as 'see', 'hear', or 'remember'.

## Examples

- I could only see the dark shapes dimly through the thick fog.
- The old man spoke dimly of his childhood, struggling to recall the names of the people he had once known.
- The candlelight flickered against the damp stone walls, casting dimly lit shadows that seemed to move of their own accord as the wind shifted outside.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.