dusky

views updated May 23 2018

dusk·y / ˈdəskē/ • adj. (dusk·i·er, dusk·i·est) darkish in color: dusky red | a dusky complexion. ∎ dated used in euphemistic or poetic reference to black or other dark-skinned people: a dusky Moorish maiden. ∎ poetic/lit. dim: dusky light came from a small window. ∎  used in names of animals with dark coloration, e.g., dusky dolphin, dusky warbler.DERIVATIVES: dusk·i·ly / -kəlē/ adv.dusk·i·ness n.