Word
lurid
US/ˈɫʊɹəd/
UK/lˈɔːɹɪd/
Definition
adj. describing something that is very bright and shocking, especially in a way that is not attractive. It often makes you feel a bit sick or uncomfortable.
adj. characterised by bright, garish, or shocking colours; also describes descriptions that are sensationalised and unpleasant. Often carries a negative connotation of excess or grotesque detail.
Examples
“The lurid red flowers were very bright.”
“The lurid headlines in the tabloid newspaper focused on the scandal rather than the facts.”
“The artist's latest installation features lurid neon tones that clash with the gallery's minimalist architecture, creating a sense of visual unease for the viewers.”
Examples
simple
“The lurid red flowers were very bright.”
contextual
“The lurid headlines in the tabloid newspaper focused on the scandal rather than the facts.”
complex
“The artist's latest installation features lurid neon tones that clash with the gallery's minimalist architecture, creating a sense of visual unease for the viewers.”
Real-World Examples
“This and a couple of equally lurid daubs come from Magritte’s “Vache” (cow) period when he deliberately did bad, stupid paintings to annoy his family, friends and fans.” “Her work is a lurid, vivid, super-colourful, mega-joyful celebration of everyday bodies.” Etymology
Borrowed from Latin lūridus (“pale yellow, wan”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/lurid