n.
Pronunciation: ' därk
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English derk, from Old English deorc; akin to Old High German tarchannen to hide
Date: before 12th century
1 a : devoid or partially devoid of light : not receiving, reflecting, transmitting, or radiating light <a dark room> b : transmitting only a portion of light < dark glasses>
2 a : wholly or partially black < dark clothing> b of a color : of low or very low lightness c : being less light in color than other substances of the same kind < dark rum>
3 a : arising from or showing evil traits or desires : EVIL <the dark powers that lead to war> b : DISMAL , GLOOMY <had a dark view of the future> c : lacking knowledge or culture : UNENLIGHTENED <a dark period in history> d : relating to grim or depressing circumstances < dark humor>
4 a : not clear to the understanding b : not known or explored because of remoteness <the dark est reaches of the continent>
5 : not fair in complexion : SWARTHY
6 : SECRET <kept his plans dark >
7 : possessing depth and richness <a dark voice>
8 : closed to the public <the theater is dark in the summer>
synonyms see OBSCURE
– dark · ish \ ' där-kish \ adjective
– dark · ly adverb
– dark · ness noun