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sickly

adjective

/ˈsɪk li/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of sickly

Appearing or feels weak, frail, or in poor health.
"The sickly child was unable to attend school due to frequent illnesses."

Detailed meaning of sickly

It suggests a lack of vigor or vitality and conveys a sense of being easily susceptible to illness or experiencing frequent health issues. A sickly person may have a pale complexion, exhibit signs of fatigue or malaise, or appear generally unwell. The term can also refer to an object or color that appears weak, feeble, or unpleasant, often evoking a sense of discomfort or unease. Furthermore, "sickly" can describe a taste or odor that is unpleasantly sweet or overly rich, giving an impression of being excessive or cloying. In summary, the adjective "sickly" portrays a condition of physical weakness, a fragile appearance, or an unpleasant quality that may be associated with poor health or an unsettling sensation.

Example sentences containing sickly

1. The sickly plant struggled to thrive despite careful care and attention.
2. The room had a sickly smell, reminiscent of stale air and mildew.
3. Her sickly complexion hinted at her ongoing battle with a chronic illness.
4. The sickly glow of the moon cast an eerie light on the dark forest.
5. He was overcome by a sickly feeling of nausea after eating the spoiled food.
6. The sickly sweet scent of the flowers overwhelmed her senses.

History and etymology of sickly

The adjective 'sickly' has its etymological origins in the Middle English word 'sikel,' which was derived from the Old English term 'sēoclic.' In Old English, 'sēoclic' denoted something related to illness or weakness. It was formed by combining 'sēoc,' meaning sick or ill, with the suffix '-lic,' which indicated a characteristic or quality. The root 'sēoc' itself had Proto-Germanic roots, stemming from the word 'siukaz,' meaning sick or weak. Over time, 'sickly' came to describe something or someone appearing or feeling weak, frail, or in poor health, reflecting its historical association with illness and weakness. The etymology of 'sickly' underscores its connection to the concept of poor health and debility.

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Further usage examples of sickly

1. The sickly dog was taken to the veterinarian for a thorough examination.
2. The sickly hue of the painting added a haunting atmosphere to the artwork.
3. She drank a sickly-sweet beverage that left an unpleasant aftertaste.
4. The sickly cat curled up in a corner, seeking solace and comfort.
5. The sickly atmosphere of the abandoned house gave her an uneasy feeling.
6. The sickly child needed constant care and attention.
7. His sickly appearance raised concerns among his friends.
8. The sickly plant struggled to survive in the harsh sun.
9. She had a sickly pallor after the long illness.
10. The room's sickly green paint color was unsettling.
11. The sickly smell in the basement indicated a problem.
12. His sickly cough persisted despite medication.
13. The sickly kitten required special veterinary care.
14. The sickly glow of the moon cast an eerie light.
15. The old man's sickly voice trembled with every word.
16. The sickly dog's energy levels were extremely low.
17. The sickly taste of the medicine was hard to bear.
18. The sickly sweet scent of the flowers filled the air.
19. The sickly haze hung over the polluted city.
20. Her sickly condition prevented her from attending school.
21. The sickly tree's branches were withered and weak.
22. A sickly atmosphere enveloped the abandoned building.
23. He felt sickly and weak after the strenuous workout.
24. The sickly child's eyes were heavy with fatigue.
25. The sickly patient's recovery was slow but steady.