Dismal/ˈdɪzməl/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Weight Use 'dismal' to emphasize the severity of emotional situations. Her rejection left him in a dismal state. Pro Tip 2/3Not Just Weather 'Dismal' describes more than weather; it can relate to anything sad. The news of the accident cast a dismal shadow over the party. Pro Tip 3/3Intensity of Sadness 'Dismal' implies a deep, often lingering unhappiness. After the funeral, her dismal mood was unshakable.