Definition of "awful" in English

adjective

1. Very bad.

   • The smell of my socks is awful.
   • We saw such an awful film last night that we left the theater before the end.

2. Exceedingly great; usually applied intensively.

   • an awful bonnet
   • I have learnt an awful amount today.

3. (dated) Causing fear or horror; appalling, terrible.

4. (now rare) Awe-inspiring; filling with profound reverence or respect; profoundly impressive.

5. (now rare) Struck or filled with awe or reverence.

6. (obsolete) Terror-stricken.

adverb

1. Awfully; dreadfully; terribly.

2. (US, Canada) Very, extremely.

   • That's an awful big house.
   • She seemed awful nice when I met her yesterday.
   • He was blubbering away something awful.