dusky

[ duhs-kee ]

adjective

, dusk·i·er, dusk·i·est.

1. somewhat dark; having little light; dim; shadowy.
2. Older Use: Chiefly Literary. having dark skin.
3. of a dark color.
4. gloomy; sad.

dusky

/ ˈdʌskɪ /

adjective

1. dark in colour; swarthy or dark-skinned
2. dim

Derived Forms

• ˈduskiness, noun
• ˈduskily, adverb

Other Words From

• duski·ly adverb
• duski·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of dusky¹

First recorded in 1550–60; dusk ² + -y ¹

Example Sentences

By then, more than two hours after her arrival, Crain’s blood pressure had plummeted and a nurse had noted that her lips were “blue and dusky.”

From Salon

Known for her dusky middle register and soaring, agile upper range, her vocals have been called “radiant,” “alluring,” “honeyed,” and like “plush velvet”.

From BBC

But she performs all the characters herself, and when she launches into song with her exquisite voice, moving from a range of high bell-like clarity to dusky lowdown in both original material by Irving and tweaked standards, the show is most fully alive.

From Los Angeles Times

There's also a Lion King themed bedroom, with muted oranges and dusky reds giving off definite Pride Lands vibes.

From BBC

The clip was for Aftab’s latest song, the dusky “Raat Ki Rani,” from her fourth solo album, “Night Reign,” due May 31.

From New York Times

Related Words

• smoky