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Definition of sultry

sultry

/ˈsʌl.tɹi/
sul · try

Adverb:sultrily
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sultry Lexical Profile

sultry Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Oppressively hot, humid, and still (of weather or the air).

Example

"We sought shelter under the porch to escape the sultry August afternoon."


2

Displaying or suggesting passion, sensuality, and allure (of a person, voice, or demeanor).

Example

"The jazz singer captivated the audience with her low, sultry voice."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 16th century, "sultry" is an alteration of the obsolete verb "sulter," a variant of "swelter," which derives from the Old English "sweltan" meaning "to perish" or "to die of heat."

Cite this Entry


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