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Definition of bestial

bestial

/ˈbɛs.ti.əl/
bes · ti · al
Adverb:bestially
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bestial Lexical Profile

bestial Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Savagely cruel, brutal, or depraved; lacking human sensibility or moral restraint.

Example

"The historical tribunal documented the bestial treatment of prisoners during the occupation."

2

Of, relating to, or characteristic of wild animals or beasts rather than humans.

Example

"A low, bestial growl echoed from the mouth of the dark cavern."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for bestial
Antonyms
View all antonyms for bestial

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'beastly' is often used informally to mean merely unpleasant or annoying (as in 'beastly weather'), 'bestial' is a much stronger, formal word reserved for savagery, moral depravity, or literal animal nature.

• Rhymes for bestial

• Nearby Words

bespoke
bessie
best
bestial
bestiality
bestie
bestow

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French 'bestial', from Latin 'bestialis' ('like a beast'), derived from 'bestia' ('beast, wild animal').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bestial. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bestial
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