downright

1 of 2

adverb

down·​right ˈdau̇n-ˌrīt How to pronounce downright (audio)
1
archaic : straight down
2
: absolutely sense 1a
downright handsome
downright mean
3
obsolete : forthright

downright

2 of 2

adjective

1
archaic : directed vertically downward
2
: outright, thorough
a downright lie
3
: plain, blunt
stories he had heard of her downright tongueAngus Wilson
downrightly adverb
downrightness noun

Examples of downright in a Sentence

Adverb The movie was downright stupid. It's very difficult, if not downright impossible. Adjective rural folks are often known for their downright speech, as they are generally not ones to beat around the bush that's a downright lie, and you know it
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adverb
Plus, the expansive views of the city, especially the Imperial Palace and Mount Fuji, are downright dreamy. Katie Chang, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025 Getty The scenario touched a nerve among other Reddit users who chimed in with sympathy and suggestions—some humorous, others passive-aggressive, and a few downright devious. Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 July 2025
Adjective
For working with more delicate objects, however, buyers can opt for softer brass grips, even softer nylon grips, or downright rubbery silicone grips. New Atlas, 17 June 2025 Dining here feels like eating at a friend's home—that is, if your friend could whip up a downright decadent vodka rigatoni. Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 21 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for downright

Word History

First Known Use

Adverb

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1530, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of downright was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Downright.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downright. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

downright

1 of 2 adverb
down·​right -ˌrīt How to pronounce downright (audio)
: in a complete and absolute manner
that was downright stupid

downright

2 of 2 adjective
1
: absolute sense 3, utter
a downright lie
2
: outspoken, blunt
downright country people
downrightly adverb
downrightness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on downright

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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