650 Adjectives That Start with D | List with Definitions and Examples

This article will list 650 easy and comprehensive adjectives that start with D, which are used to describe, modify and quantify nouns. Descriptive words starting with D are categorized into eight different categories depending on their positive and negative use.

Adjectives starting with D, when used in your communication will enhance the deeper meaning of the information you are delivering to others. Moreover, adjectives beginning with D are needed for the comparison of nouns.

Whenever adjectives are used with a person, place or thing, at once, either a positive or a negative sense comes to the mind of the listener.

Continue reading adjectives that start with D below with definitions, examples and synonyms for easily understanding.

Table of Contents

Adjectives That Start with D – Full List (650 words)

Have you ever tried to find a full list of adjectives starting with D? Then you’ve come to the right place. Below you can find 650 D adjectives.

Dacitic
Dactylic

Daedal
Daffy
Daft
Daily

Dainty
Damaged
Damaging
Damask

Damn
Damnatory
Damp
Danceable
Dandified

Dandy
Dandyish
Dangerous
Dank
Dantean
Dantesque
Dapper
Dappled
Daredevil
Daring

Dark
Darkened
Darkish
Darling
Darwinian
Dashing
Dastard
Dated
Daughterly
Daunting

Dauntless
Dawdling
Day
Daylong
Dazed
Dazzling
Dead
Deadly
Deadpan
Deaf

Deafened
Deafening
Deafly
Dear
Dearness
Deathless
Debatable
Debile
Debonair
Debonaire

Deboned
Debonnaire
Decadent
Decalescent
Decayed
Decaying
Deceased
Deceitful
Deceivable
Deceiving

Decent
Decentralized
Deceptive
Decided
Deciduous
Decimal
Decimated
Decisive
Deckled
Declining

Decollete
Decompound
Decorated
Decorative
Decorous
Decreasing
Decrepit
Decumbent
Decurved
Decussate

Dedicated
Deducible
Deductive
Deep
Deepening
Deeply
Defamatory
Defeasible
Defeated
Defective

Defendable
Defenseless
Defensible
Defensive
Deferent
Defiant
Deficient
Defiled
Definable
Defined

Definite
Definitive
Defoliate
Defoliated
Deformed
Deft
Defunct
Degage
Degenerate
Degraded

Degrading
Degressive
Dehiscent
Dehydrated
Deictic
Deific
Deist
Deistic
Dejected
Delayed

Delectable
Deleterious
Deliberate
Delible
Delicate
Delicious
Delighted
Delightful
Delineate
Delineative

Delinquent
Deliquescent
Delirious
Deliverable
Delphian

Delphic
Deltoid
Deluded
Delusive
Deluxe

Demagogic
Demanding
Demented

Democratic
Demode
Demoniac

Demonic
Demotic
Demulcent
Demure
Denary
Denatured
Dendriform
Dendritic
Deniable
Denigrative
Denotative
Denotive
Dense
Dental
Dentate
Denticulate
Denudate
Denumerable
Dependable
Dependant
Dependent
Depilatory
Depilous
Deplorable
Deploring
Depraved
Deprecatory
Depressant
Depressed
Depressing
Depressive
Deprived
Deranged
Derelict
Derisive
Derisory
Derivative
Dermal
Derogative
Derogatory
Descendent
Descending
Descriptive
Desegrated
Deserted
Desiccate
Designate
Designator
Designatory
Designed
Designer
Desirable
Desirous
Deskbound
Desolate
Despairing
Desperate
Despicable
Despised
Despondent
Despotic
Destined
Destitute
Destroyed
Destructive
Desultory
Detachable
Detached
Detailed
Detectable
Detergent
Determinant
Determinative
Determined
Deterrent
Detersive
Detestable
Detested
Detrimental
Deuced
Devalued
Devastated
Devastating
Developed
Developing
Deviant
Deviate
Deviatory
Devious
Devoid
Devoted
Devout
Deweyan
Dewy
Dexter
Dexterous
Dextral
Dextrorotary
Dextrorsal
Dextrorse
Dextrous
Diabatic
Diabetic
Diabolical
Diachronic
Diacritic
Diacritical
Diadromous
Diagnostic
Diagonal
Dialectic
Dialectical
Diamagnetic
Diamantine
Diametrical
Dianoetic
Diaphanous
Diaphoretic
Diaphyseal
Diaphysial
Diarrheal
Diarrheic
Diarrhetic
Diarrhoeal
Diarrhoeic
Diarrhoetic
Diastolic
Diatomic
Diatonic
Diazo
Dicarboxylic
Dicey
Dichotomous
Dichromatic
Dickensian
Dickey
Dicky
Diclinous
Dictatorial
Dictyopteran
Didactic
Didactical
Diestrous
Diestrual
Dietary
Dietetical
Different
Differential
Difficult
Diffident
Diffuse
Diffused
Diffusible
Diffusing
Diffusive
Digestible
Digestive
Dighted
Digital
Digitate
Digitigrade
Dignified
Digressive
Dilapidated
Dilatory
Dilettante
Dilettantish
Diligent
Dilute
Diluvian
Dim
Dimensional
Diminishing
Diminutival
Diminutive
Dimmed
Dimmer
Dimorphic
Dimorphous
Dingy
Dinky
Diocesan
Dioecian
Dioecious
Dioestrous
Diploid
Diplomatic
Dipolar
Dipterous
Dipylon
Dire
Direct
Directing
Directionless
Directive
Direful
Dirigible
Dirt
Dirtier
Dirtiest
Dirty
Disabled
Disaffected
Disagreeable
Disappearing
Disappointed
Disappointing
Disapproving
Disarming
Disarranged
Disarrayed
Disastrous
Discalceate
Discalced
Discarded
Discernable
Discernible
Discerning
Disciform
Disciplinary
Disciplined
Disclike
Disclosed
Discoid
Discoidal
Discomposed
Discomycetous
Disconcerted
Disconfirming
Disconnected
Disconsolate
Discontent
Discordant
Discorporate
Discouraged
Discovered
Discreditable
Discredited
Discreet
Discrepant
Discrete
Discretional
Discretionary
Discriminable
Discriminate
Discriminating
Discriminative
Discriminatory
Discursive
Discussable
Disdainful
Diseased
Disembodied
Disenchanting
Disfranchised
Disgraced
Disguised
Disheveled
Dishevelled
Dishonest
Dishonored
Dishonourable
Dishy
Disinfectant
Disjoined
Disjunct
Disjunctive
Disklike
Dislogistic
Dismayed
Disobliging
Disordered
Disorganised
Dispersed
Dispirited
Dispiriting
Displaced
Displeased
Displeasing
Disposable
Disposed
Disproved
Disputable
Disputatious
Disputed
Disruptive
Dissatisfied
Dissentient
Dissentious
Dissidence
Dissident
Dissilient
Dissimulative
Dissociable
Dissoluble
Dissolute
Dissolving
Dissonant
Dissuasive
Distaff
Distal
Distant
Distensible
Distinctive
Distinguished
Distortable
Distorted
Distracted
Distrait
Distraught
Distressed
Distributed
Distributive
Distrustful
Disturbing
Disunited
Disused
Disyllabic
Dithyrambic
Diurnal
Divalent
Divergent
Divers
Diversified
Diverting
Divided
Divinatory
Divine
Divining
Divisible
Divisional
Divisive
Dizygotic
Dizygous
Dizzy
Dizzying
Djiboutian
Doable
Docile
Doctoral
Doctrinaire
Documental
Documentary
Documented
Doddering
Doddery
Dodgy
Dogged
Doggish
Dogmatic
Dogmatical
Dolabrate
Dolabriform
Doleful
Dolichocranic
Dollish
Dolomitic
Dolorous
Dolourous
Doltish
Domed
Domestic
Domesticated
Domiciliary
Dominant
Dominated
Dominical
Dominican
Donatist
Done
Donnean
Donnian
Donnish
Dope
Dopey
Dopy
Dorian
Doric
Dormant
Dormie
Dormy
Dorsal
Doting
Dotted
Dotty
Double
Doubled
Doubtful
Doubting
Doughy
Dour
Dovish
Dowdy
Dowered
Dowerless
Down
Downbound
Downcast
Downfield
Downhill
Downlike
Downmarket
Downright
Downscale
Downstage
Downstair
Downstairs
Downstream
Downtrodden
Downwind
Dozen
Dozing
Dozy
Drab

Draconian
Drafty
Draggled
Drained
Draining
Dramatic
Drastic
Draughty
Drawn
Dreaded
Dreadful
Dreaming
Dreamless
Dreamlike
Dreamy
Drear
Dreary
Drenched
Dress
Dressed
Dressy
Dried
Drinkable
Dripless
Dripping
Drippy
Drivable
Driven
Driving
Drizzly

Droll
Drooping
Droopy
Dropsical
Drowsy
Drudging
Drugless
Drumhead
Drunk
Drunken
Drupaceous
Dry
Drying
Dual
Dualistic
Dubious
Dubitable
Ducal
Duckbill
Ductile
Ductless
Dud
Due
Dulcet
Dull
Dulled
Dumb
Dummy
Dumpy
Dun

Duncical
Duodecimal
Duodenal
Duple
Duplex
Duplicable
Duplicate
Duplicitous
Durable
Dural
Dusky
Dustlike
Dusty
Dutch
Duteous
Dutiable
Dutiful
Dwarfish
Dwindling
Dyadic
Dying
Dynamic
Dynamical
Dynastic
Dyspeptic

Adjectives That Start with D – with Definitions and Examples

Definitions and examples are necessary to learn any language. Of course, this also applies to learning adjectives beginning with D.

Dactylic

Definition: used to refer to a rhythm in poetry in which one strong or one long syllable is followed by two unstressed or short syllables

Example: The word “elephant” demonstrates a dactylic stress pattern.

Daft

Definition: silly; foolish

Example: Don’t ask such daft questions.

Daily

Definition: happening on or relating to every day

Example: Exercise has become part of my daily routine.

Dainty

Definition: small, delicate, and often moving in a careful way

Example: The chicken salad was served in dainty pastry shells.

Damaged

Definition: harmed or spoiled

Example: They’re selling off damaged goods at reduced price.

Damaging

Definition: causing harm

Example: Many chemicals have a damaging effect on the environment.

Damask

Definition: a type of heavy cloth that has a pattern woven into it that is the same colour as the cloth

Example: An iron pot stood on one of the best damask table-cloths.

Damn

Definition: used to express anger with someone or something

Example: You’re a damn fool!

Damp

Definition: slightly wet, especially in a way that is not pleasant or comfortable

Example: The hotel walls were covered in damp patches.

Dandified

Definition: looking or acting like a dandy

Example: An embroidered silk waistcoat contributed to his dandified appearance.

Dandy

Definition: excellent

Example: Things are all fine and dandy.

Dangerous

Definition: a dangerous person, animal, thing, or activity could harm you

Example: The men are armed and dangerous.

Dank

Definition: (especially of buildings and air) wet, cold, and unpleasant

Example: In the cathedral vaults the air was dank and stale.

Dapper

Definition: neat and spruce in dress and bearing; trim

Example: Hercule Poirot is the dapper detective of the Agatha Christie novels.

Dappled

Definition: covered with spots of colour that are lighter or darker than the main colour, or covered with areas of light and darkness

Example: The dappled sunlight fell across her face as she lay beneath the tree.

Daring

Definition: brave and taking risks

Example: This is a daring new film by one of our most original modern directors.

Dark

Definition: nearer to black than white in colour

Example: He was tall, dark and handsome.

Darkened

Definition: made dark, or without light

Example: We crept slowly along the darkened corridor.

Darling

Definition: very attractive

Example: They’ve just bought a darling little apartment.

Dashing

Definition: stylish; lively

Example: Two elegant Scotsmen travelling together wore dashing kilts at dinner.

Dated

Definition: old-fashioned

Example: Spy thrillers with plots based on the cold War look particularly dated nowadays.

Daunting

Definition: making you feel slightly frightened or worried about your ability to achieve something

Example: The country was faced with the daunting prospect of overcoming four decades of division.

Dauntless

Definition: showing determination and no fear

Example: In spite of the scale of the famine, the relief workers struggled on with dauntless optimism.

Dazzling

Definition: causing or likely to cause strong admiration

Example: A dazzling smile flashed across his face.

Dead

Definition: no longer alive

Example: The president has sent a message of sympathy to the relatives of the dead soldiers.

Deadly

Definition: complete or extreme

Example: They have been deadly enemies ever since Mark stole Greg’s girlfriend.

Deadpan

Definition: impassive or expressionless

Example: She delivered her monologue in a deadpan voice.

Deafening

Definition: (of a noise) so loud as to make it impossible to hear anything else

Example: The music reached a deafening crescendo.

Dear

Definition: loved or liked very much

Example: She was a very dear friend.

Debatable

Definition: open to discussion or argument

Example: It was his habit to encourage informal reunions of his intimates, to discuss debatable questions in science and theology.

Debonair

Definition: confident, stylish, and charming (typically used of a man)

Example: All the men looked debonair and handsome in white tie and tails.

Decayed

Definition: having fallen into disrepair; deteriorated

Example: There are ruins of a castle and an old decayed church, which contains some fine Norman work.

Deceased

Definition: dead

Example: A death certificate for the deceased owner of the property is required.

Deceivable

Definition: capable of being deceived

Example: The above brokers also push some local financial officials to find deceivable investors.

Decent

Definition: socially acceptable or good

Example: I thought he was a decent person.

Deceptive

Definition: giving an appearance or impression different from the true one; misleading

Example: He put the question with deceptive casualness.

Decided

Definition: (of a quality) definite; unquestionable

Example: The sunshine is a decided improvement.

Deciduous

Definition: denoting the milk teeth of a mammal, which are shed after a time

Example: This is the period when the deciduous teeth are being shed.

Decisive

Definition: setting an issue; producing a definite result

Example: The archers played a decisive part in the victory.

Deckled

Definition: having a rough edge

Example: A deckled edge is also a feathery, unfinished paper edge.

Decorative

Definition: made to look attractive

Example: He gave the picture a decorative border, which changed the look of the page.

Decreasing

Definition: becoming smaller and fewer in size, amount, intensity or degree

Example: The affair attracts a decreasing number of visitors.

Decrepit

Definition: in very bad condition because of being old, or not having been cared for, or having been used a lot

Example: A decrepit old man sat on a park bench.

Dedicated

Definition: designed to be used for one particular purpose

Example: Only a truly dedicated scientist would want to read such a detailed report.

Deducible

Definition: able to be deduced

Example: There is no rationally deducible connection between the two facts.

Deductive

Definition: reaching an answer or a decision by thinking carefully about the known facts

Example: The education system that most of us have grown up with teaches logical, deductive thinking.

Deep

Definition: very intense or extreme

Example: She was in deep trouble.

Deepening

Definition: increasing or becoming darker

Example: They felt a deepening sense of despair.

Deeply

Definition: extremely or strongly

Example: I’m deeply grateful to you.

Defamatory

Definition: damaging the reputation of a person or group by saying or writing bad things about them that are not true

Example: The magazine had refused to withdraw the defamatory allegations.

Defeated

Definition: having been beaten in a battle or other contest

Example: Bill Clinton defeated George Bush for the presidency in 1992.

Defective

Definition: containing a fault, or not working correctly

Example: The company does not accept returns on any technology products unless they’re defective or damaged.

Defenseless

Definition: without defense or protection; totally vulnerable

Example: The bandits descended on the defensible village.

Defensible

Definition: able to be protected

Example: This city has a defensible location.

Defensive

Definition: used to protect someone or something against attack

Example: These are purely defensive weapons, not designed for attack.

Defiant

Definition: not willing to accept criticism or disapproval

Example: The CEO was in a defiant mood as she entered the boardroom.

Definable

Definition: able to be defined

Example: The Book Talker has eight hundred and forty-six definable phrases.

Definite

Definition: clearly stated or decided; not vague or doubtful

Example: We had no definite plans.

Definitive

Definition: not able to be changed or improved

Example: There are no definitive solutions to this problem.

Deformed

Definition: spoiled by not having a usual or regular shape or structure

Example: The child was born with a deformed heart.

Deft

Definition: skillful, clever, or quick

Example: She answered the journalist’s questions with a deft touch.

Defunct

Definition: no longer existing

Example: He was a reporter for defunct New York Herald newspaper.

Degenerate

Definition: bad or worse in quality or character, or (of a person) morally bad

Example: He was a lazy, degenerate young man.

Degraded

Definition: reduced in quality; inferior

Example: It will grow successfully even on degraded land.

Degrading

Definition: causing a loss of self-respect; humiliating

Example: The prisoners were subjected to cruel and degrading treatment.

Degressive

Definition: tending to descend or decrease

Example: Consequently, marshall’s pay is degressive doctrine still has its theory energy in new economy progress.

Dehiscent

Definition: (of a pod or wound) characterized by splitting or bursting open

Example: Mature fruits are dehiscent capsules that break open upon ground impact.

Dehydrated

Definition: having lost a large amount of water from the body

Example: In a single day his stubbly cheeks had begun to look hollow, and the muscles of his shoulders and legs stood out in dehydrated splendor.

Deific

Definition: resembling a god in qualities such as power or beauty; divine

Example: He achieved deific status.

Dejected

Definition: unhappy, disappointed, or without hope

Example: She looked a bit dejected when they told her she didn’t get the job.

Delayed

Definition: happening at a later time than expected or intended

Example: The protests are delayed reaction to last week’s announcement.

Delectable

Definition: (of food or drink) delicious

Example: I could not stop eating the delectable fish.

Deleterious

Definition: causing harm or damage

Example: Divorce is assumed to have deleterious effects on children.

Deliberate

Definition: (often of something bad) intentional or planned

Example: We made a deliberate decision to live apart for a while.

Delible

Definition: capable of or able to be deleted

Example: For the Ranger had found a faint boot-track, and with amazing pains he was following this delible record of guilt.

Delicate

Definition: needing careful treatment, especially because easily damaged

Example: Peaches have delicate skins which are easily bruised.

Delicious

Definition: having a very pleasant taste or smell

Example: The delicious smell of freshly made coffee came from the kitchen.

Delighted

Definition: feeling or showing great pleasure

Example: She laughed in a delighted way.

Delightful

Definition: very pleasant, attractive, or enjoyable

Example: Thank you for a delightful evening.

Delinquent

Definition: illegal or not acceptable, or behaving in a way that is illegal or not acceptable

Example: They are carrying out research on the causes of delinquent behaviour among young people.

Delirious

Definition: in a state of wild excitement or ecstasy

Example: There was a great roar from the delirious world.

Deliverable

Definition: able to be delivered

Example: The goods were not in a deliverable state.

Deltoid

Definition: a muscle in the shoulder, shaped like a triangle and used for lifting the arm

Example: The deltoid muscle lifts the arm sideways.

Deluded

Definition: believing things that are not real or true

Example: Poor deluded girl, she thinks he’s going to marry her.

Delusive

Definition: false

Example: I harboured the delusive hope that he would return my love.

Deluxe

Definition: very comfortable and of very high quality

Example: The salesman tried to sell us the deluxe model.

Demagogic

Definition: trying to win support by exciting the emotions of ordinary people rather than by having good or morally right ideas

Example: Demagogic politicians were tempted to exaggerate the threat of communism.

Demanding

Definition: (of a task) requiring much skill or effort

Example: She has a busy and demanding job.

Demented

Definition: crazy

Example: The man is demented – he’s going to wreck the whole operation.

Democratic

Definition: based on the principles of democracy

Example: We must accept the results of democratic election.

Demonic

Definition: wild and evil

Example: He had a demonic gleam in his eye.

Demure

Definition: (especially of women) quiet and well behaved

Example: She gave him a demure smile.

Dendritic

Definition: having a branched form resembling a tree

Example: Moss agate has a pale background colour with numerous darker dendritic patterns.

Deniable

Definition: able to be denied

Example: The audience pounced on a plausibly deniable slip of the tongue.

Dense

Definition: having parts that are close together so that it is difficult to go or see through

Example: The body was found hidden in dense undergrowth.

Dental

Definition: relating to the teeth

Example: She had to cancel her dental appointment.

Dependable

Definition: deserving of trust or confidence

Example: I need a dependable baby-sitter.

Dependent

Definition: needing the support of something or someone in order to continue existing or operating

Example: He has three dependent children.

Depilatory

Definition: relating to or intended for removing unwanted hair from the human body

Example: I use a depilatory cream under my arms.

Deplorable

Definition: very bad

Example: They are forced to live in deplorable conditions.

Deploring

Definition: feeling or expressing strong disapproval

Example: He shook his head with a deploring smile.

Depraved

Definition: morally corrupt; wicked

Example: He was a depraved lecher.

Depressant

Definition: slowing the rate of the body’s functions

Example: These drugs have a depressant effect.

Depressed

Definition: showing a lack of money or business activity

Example: This is an economically depressed area.

Depressing

Definition: making you feel unhappy and without hope for the future

Example: The holiday will soon be over – that’s a depressing thought.

Deprived

Definition: lacking something that is needed to live

Example: He took pictures in deprived areas of the city.

Derisive

Definition: expressing contempt or ridicule

Example: He gave a harsh, derisive laugh.

Derisory

Definition: ridiculously small or inadequate

Example: They were given a derisory pay rise.

Dermal

Definition: for, in, or relating to the skin

Example: Dermal fillers are used to plump up wrinkles.

Derogatory

Definition: showing strong disapproval and not showing respect

Example: He made some derogatory remark about her appearance.

Descending

Definition: moving down a scale of quality

Example: The categories are listed in descending order of usefulness.

Descriptive

Definition: serving or seeking to describe

Example: The text contains some good descriptive passages.

Deserted

Definition: having no people or things in it; empty

Example: We parked in a deserted lot near the river.

Designed

Definition: planned or conceived in detail or for a specific purpose

Example: The aircraft performed their designed functions well.

Desirable

Definition: worth having and wanted by most people

Example: It’s regarded as a highly desirable job.

Desolate

Definition: (of a place) empty and not attractive, with no people or nothing pleasant in it

Example: The house stood in a bleak and desolate landscape.

Despairing

Definition: showing the loss of all hope

Example: He gave a despairing little shrug.

Desperate

Definition: very great or extreme

Example: He has a desperate desire to succeed.

Despicable

Definition: very unpleasant or bad, causing strong feelings of dislike

Example: He’s a despicable human being!

Despotic

Definition: having unlimited power over other people, and often using it unfairly and cruelly

Example: A handful of corrupt and despotic leaders make the decisions.

Destitute

Definition: extremely poor and lacking the means to provide for oneself

Example: The charity cares for destitute children.

Destructive

Definition: causing, or able to cause, damage

Example: I worry about the destructive effect that violent films may have on children.

Desultory

Definition: lacking a plan, purpose, or enthusiasm

Example: A few people were left, dancing in a desultory fashion.

Detached

Definition: aloof and objective

Example: He is a detached observer of his own actions.

Detailed

Definition: giving a lot of information with many details

Example: A witness gave a detailed description of the man.

Detectable

Definition: that can be noticed or discovered

Example: There has been no detectable change in the patient’s condition.

Determined

Definition: possessing or displaying resolve

Example: Helen was a determined little girl.

Detrimental

Definition: causing harm or damage

Example: These chemicals have a detrimental impact on the environment.

Deuced

Definition: used for emphasis, especially to express disapproval or frustration

Example: I sound like a deuced newspaper reporter.

Devastated

Definition: completely destroyed

Example: Thousands of people have left their devastated villages and fled to the mountains.

Devastating

Definition: causing severe shock, distress, or grief

Example: The news came as a devastating blow.

Developed

Definition: advanced or powerful

Example: Sharks have a highly developed sense of smell.

Developing

Definition: growing and becoming more mature, advanced, or elaborate

Example: This is a rapidly developing field.

Devious

Definition: (of a route or journey) longer and less direct than the most straightforward way

Example: They arrived at the town by a devious route.

Devoted

Definition: very loving or loyal

Example: He was a devoted husband.

Devout

Definition: having or showing deep religious feeling or commitment

Example: She was a devout Catholic.

Dewy

Definition: connected with dew

Example: Her dewy skin has the look of a woman 20 years younger.

Dexterous

Definition: having the ability to think quickly and effectively or to do something difficult extremely well

Example: He is a dexterous debater who deals swiftly with interrogators.

Diachronic

Definition: concerned with the way in which something, especially language, has developed and evolved through time

Example: The census is also a diachronic data set.

Diagnostic

Definition: used for making a judgement about what a particular problem is

Example: The model is a useful diagnostic tool to determine what has the most impact on employees’ performance.

Diagonal

Definition: (of a line) straight and sloping, so that it is neither horizontal nor vertical

Example: A diagonal line in a circle is often used as a symbol to show that certain behavior is forbidden.

Dialectic

Definition: using questions and answers as a method of examining something or of finding a solution to a problem

Example: Conflict and disagreement are a necessary part of a dialectic approach.

Dialectical

Definition: discovering what is true by considering opposite theories

Example: Plato’s dialogues contain many instances of dialectical argument.

Diarrheal

Definition: connected with an illness in which the body’s solid waste is more liquid than usual and comes out of the body more often

Example: Breast milk was found to be the best treatment for infants’ diarrheal disease.

Diastolic

Definition: relating to the phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscle relaxes and allows the chambers to fill with blood

Example: Consistently high diastolic pressure could lead to organ damage.

Diatomic

Definition: consisting of two atoms

Example: Only diatomic molecules are easy to study in this way, as larger molecules invariably fragment.

Dicky

Definition: weak, especially in health, and likely to fail or suffer from problems

Example: Grandad’s got a dicky heart.

Dictatorial

Definition: liking to give orders

Example: Her father is very dictatorial.

Didactic

Definition: intended to teach, or to improve morals by teaching

Example: Children’s books possess a practical, didactic purpose – to instill a love for reading.

Dietary

Definition: relating to your diet

Example: Dietary habits can be very difficult to change.

Different

Definition: not the same as another or each other; unlike in nature, form, or quality

Example: You can play this game in different ways.

Difficult

Definition: not friendly, easy to deal with, or behaving well

Example: His wife is a very difficult woman.

Diffuse

Definition: spread out and not directed in one place

Example: The company has become large and diffuse.

Diffusing

Definition: to (cause something to) spread in many directions

Example: Television is a powerful means of diffusing knowledge.

Digestible

Definition: (of information) easy to understand or follow

Example: Her books convey philosophical issues in a lucid and digestible form.

Digital

Definition: using or relating to computers and the internet

Example: Social media is an essential tool in a digital world.

Dignified

Definition: controlled, serious, and calm, and therefore deserving respect

Example: He has maintained a dignified silence about the rumours.

Dilapidated

Definition: (esp. of a structure) in bad condition and needing repair

Example: We still use the dilapidated barn for storing tools.

Dilatory

Definition: slow to act

Example: The boss sacked a dilatory worker yesterday.

Diligent

Definition: done in a careful and detailed way

Example: The discovery was made after years of diligent research.

Dim

Definition: not giving or having much light

Example: The lamp gave out a dim light.

Dimensional

Definition: relating to measurements or dimensions

Example: Technicians check dimensional accuracy using coordinate measuring machines.

Diminutive

Definition: very small

Example: My grandmother was a diminutive woman, less than 5 feet tall. 150

Dimorphic

Definition: occurring in or representing two distinct forms

Example: In the sexually dimorphic species only the males have wings.

Dingy

Definition: dark and often also dirty

Example: Her hair was a dingy brown colour.

Diocesan

Definition: connected with a diocese

Example: Bishops continue to exercise great control over diocesan funds.

Diploid

Definition: a cell or organism that has paired chromosomes, one from each parent

Example: There is no diploid nucleus, with a complement of chromosomes, until we reach the two-cell stage.

Diplomatic

Definition: of or concerning diplomacy

Example: The governments have broken off diplomatic relations.

Dipterous

Definition: of, relating to, or belonging to the Diptera

Example: There was no evident temporal separation between ecologically similar coleopterous or dipterous taxa during succession.

Direct

Definition: without anyone or anything else being involved or between

Example: She decided to take direct control of the project.

Directionless

Definition: lacking in general aim or purpose

Example: after a few directionless years I have become a self-employed translator in Belgium, where I have a lovely flat and am very happy.

Directive

Definition: involving the management or guidance of operations

Example: The authority is seeking a directive role in energy policy.

Direful

Definition: dreadful; terrible

Example: Two parties were contending in the state, and their obstinacy could not fail to produce a most direful collision.

Dirty

Definition: marked by dirt, mud, etc., or containing something such as pollution or bacteria

Example: Her face was dirty and tear-stained.

Disabled

Definition: lacking one or more of the physical or mental abilities that most people have

Example: They opened a group home for mentally disabled adults.

Disaffected

Definition: no longer supporting or being satisfied with an organization or idea

Example: The party needs to take steps to attract disaffected voters.

Disagreeable

Definition: unfriendly and bad-tempered

Example: Henry was always a very disagreeable boy.

Disappointed

Definition: (of hopes or expectations) prevented from being realized

Example: The rising was a revolution of disappointed hopes.

Disappointing

Definition: failing to fulfil someone’s hopes or expectations

Example: The team made a disappointing start.

Disapproving

Definition: expressing an unfavourable opinion

Example: He shot a disapproving glance at her.

Disarming

Definition: making someone like you, especially when they had not expected to

Example: He displayed a disarming honesty by telling them about his father’s bankruptcy.

Disastrous

Definition: causing great damage

Example: A disastrous fire swept through the museum.

Discarded

Definition: get rid of (someone or something) as no longer useful or desirable

Definition: Discarded food containers and bottles discarded the streets.

Discernible

Definition: able to be discerned; perceptible

Example: The scandal had no discernible effect on his career.

Discerning

Definition: having or showing good judgement

Example: The brasserie attracts discerning customers.

Disciplinary

Definition: concerning or enforcing discipline

Example: A soldier will face disciplinary action after going absent without leave.

Disciplined

Definition: behaving in a very controlled way

Example: The young gymnasts who won the competition were a talented and disciplined team.

Disclosed

Definition: to make something known publicly, or to show something that was hidden

Example: The company has disclosed profits of over £200 million.

Discoid

Definition: shaped like a disc

Example: The three-dimensional shape of arborization is discoid and flat.

Disconcerted

Definition: unsettled or confused

Example: Pierre seemed disconcerted and embarrassed.

Disconnected

Definition: having had a connection broken

Example: He expected the disconnected phone to start ringing.

Disconsolate

Definition: very unhappy and unable to be comforted

Example: The children were disconsolate about the death of their mother.

Discontent

Definition: dissatisfied

Example: He was discontent with his wages.

Discordant

Definition: disagreeing or incongruous

Example: The operative principle of democracy is a balance of discordant qualities.

Discovered

Definition: find unexpectedly or during a search

Example: America was discovered by Columbus in 1492.

Discreditable

Definition: causing or likely to cause a loss of respect for a person, group, or idea

Example: Defence lawyers may try to bring up discreditable incidents in the victim’s life.

Discreet

Definition: careful and prudent in one’s speech or actions, especially in order to keep something confidential or to avoid embarrassment

Example: We made some discreet inquiries.

Discrepant

Showing a difference between two things that should be the same

Definition: Discrepant results have been described by one group of scientists.

Discrete

Definition: individually separate and distinct

Example: Speech sounds are produced as a continuous sound signal rather than discrete units.

Discretionary

Definition: available for use at the discretion of the user

Example: There has been an increase in year-end discretionary bonuses.

Discriminable

Definition: able to be discriminated; distinguished

Example: He concluded that the term culture-bound syndrome ‘still has currency but little discriminable content’.

Discriminating

Definition: having or showing refined taste or good judgement

Example: He became a discriminating collector and patron of the arts.

Discriminative

Definition: making fine distinctions; discerning

Example: The viscosity test, although of considerable importance in the examination of lubricating oils, has been shown to have very little discriminative value as a general test.

Discriminatory

Definition: characterized by or showing prejudicial treatment, especially as an indication of bias related to age, color, religion, etc

Example: Race, religion and other discriminatory factors do not play a role in the decision process.

Discursive

Definition: digressing from subject to subject

Example: Students often write dull, second-hand, discursive prose.

Positive Adjectives That Start with D to Describe a Person

If you are in need of positive adjectives that start with D to describe a person, below D adjectives are right for you.

1. Dauntless

Definition: to have the strength, determination and fearlessness

Synonyms: undaunted, undismayed

Example: He showed dauntless bravery while training to become a naval officer.

2. Decent

Definition: someone who is following the acceptable standards of morality

Synonyms: suitable, satisfactory

Example: He is a decent man.

3. Deferent

Definition: someone who is considerate and respectful

Synonyms: dutiful, regardful

Example: She is always deferent.

4. Decisive

Definition: someone who is capable of producing results and settling the issues

Synonyms: conclusive, crucial

Example: He is decisive, so he does not waste any time to get to the conclusions of the matter.

5. Deft

Definition: someone who is able to move quickly, skillfully and neatly

Synonyms: dexterous, dextrous

Example: She is a deft woman, this is why she can manage multiple tasks at the same time.

6. Dedicated

Definition: someone who is loyal to and devoted to a purpose or a task

Synonyms: committed, wholehearted

Example: They are very dedicated people, so you will never be disappointed with their enthusiasm.

7. Delighted

Definition: someone or something that shows and feels great happiness and pleasure

Synonyms: thrilled, glad

Example: He was delighted to see his daughter win the race.

8. Demure

Definition: someone who is shy, modest and reserved

Synonyms: meek, bashful

Example: She is demure, which is one of her many admirable qualities.

9. Dependable

Definition: someone who is completely reliable and trustworthy

Synonyms: loyal, faithful

Example: She is a dependable woman.

10. Daring

Definition: someone who is audaciously bold or adventurous

Synonyms: brave, intrepid

Example: She was a daring girl, so she decided to become an acrobat.

11. Dainty

Definition: someone who is delicate and pretty

Synonyms: nice, fine

Example: She was dressed in a dainty manner.

Positive Adjectives That Start with D to Describe an Event

To describe an event precisely, some of descriptive words that start with D below may just meet your need.

1. Diverse

Definition: an activity which happens with a great deal of variety

Synonyms: sundry, manifold

Example: The new year fireworks celebration took place in a diverse manner.

2. Daedal

Definition: something which is ingenious or complex in function and design

Synonyms: convoluted, sophisticated

Example: The daedal workings of my favourite teapot are amazing.

3. Daily

Definition: something which happens every day of the week

Synonyms: everyday, day-to-day

Example: The doctor advised me to add yoga to my daily routine because I was pregnant.

4. Damascene

Definition: something which can transform the beliefs and attitude of people dramatically, (when used for metal) decorated or embellished in an attractive wavy pattern

Synonyms: damask

Example: In the light of the recent statement, the court thinks that the witness had undergone something like a damascene conversion.

5. Danceable

Definition: an event on which it is enjoyable to dance for celebration

Synonyms: playful, entertaining

Example: I found the wedding ceremony to be danceable, because of heart-touching music.

6. Dandy

Definition: something which is excellent and outstanding

Synonyms: admirable, exceptional

Example: Everything was dandy at the new year celebration.

7. Dateable

Definition: an event or thing which is able to be dated to a particular time in the calendar

Synonyms: datable

Example: When my baby spoke the first word, I thought the day was dateable.

8. Dazzling

Definition: something which is extremely bright and illuminated

Synonyms: glaring, gleaming

Example: I could see the dazzling rays of sunlight filtering into my greenhouse.

9. Dapper

Definition: something characterized by neatness and good looks

Synonyms: spruce, smart

Example: Everything was arranged in a dapper manner at the art exhibition.

10. Dulcet

Definition: an event full of sweet and melodious sounds

Synonyms: sweet-sounding, soothing

Example: I love to spend some time besides my birdbath fountain because I enjoy the dulcet environment.

11. Dreamlike

Definition: something that is characterized by the qualities of a dream or fantasy

Synonyms: wonderful, overwhelming

Example: When my parents took me to the Cadbury World and Disneyland, I saw a dreamlike view.

12. Dramatic

Definition: an event, situation or circumstance that take place strikingly and suddenly

Synonyms: noticeable, significant

Example: The pandemic brought about a dramatic increase in the death rate.

13. Domiciliary

Definition: an event which takes place in somebody’s house or is concerned with somebody’s house

Synonyms: homely, domestic

Example: An official from the domiciliary authority was notified of the upcoming problems.

Positive Adjectives That Start with D to Describe a Place

When finding a pleasant place, don’t hesitate to share it with your friends. Because they may also be very interested to come. I believe some of adjectives that start with the letter D below are able to help you describe these places perfectly.

1. Decorated

Definition: a place that is made more attractive and appealing by adding embellishments

Synonyms: adorn, beautify

Example: The resort was decorated to celebrate the golden jubilee.

2. Decurved

Definition: a place that is bent downwards

Synonyms: curved, twisted

Example: The railway platform was decurved to allow easy access for the disabled.

3. Delightful

Definition: a place that is charming and exciting

Synonyms: enjoyable, entertaining, satisfying

Example: Our beach house is such a delightful place.

4. Domestic

Definition: a place that is concerned with family relations and chores

Synonyms: household, private

Example: Domestic abuse is a crime.

5. Developed

Definition: a place that is progressive, elaborated and advanced to a specific degree

Synonyms: grown, evolved

Example: They have an ancestral home in a developed society of Louisiana.

6. Deluxe

Definition: a place that is superior, sumptuous and luxurious

Synonyms: magnificent, splendid

Example: This hotel is a deluxe place to spend the summer vacation.

7. Democratic

Definition: a place or country that is supporting, following, favouring or relating to the practice and principles of democracy

Synonyms: popular, republican

Example: I live in a democratic country.

Positive Adjectives That Start with D to Describe Emotions, Personality, and Feelings

As you may know, there are a lot of adjectives with letter D that can be used to describe emotions, personalities and feelings. And below are some of them.

1. Deliberate

Definition: an action which is done intentionally, willingly and consciously

Synonyms: calculated, preconceived

Example: His refusal was deliberate.

2. Demanding

Definition: work which requires too much physical labour, attention, skill and effort

Synonyms: challenging, taxing

Example: 12-hour job is too demanding.

3. Daughterly

Definition: someone who loves a woman just like his daughter

Synonyms: dear, beloved

Example: He treated all his employees in a daughterly manner.

Negative Adjectives That Start with D to Describe a Person

After talking so much about positive adjectives, now it is time for negative adjectives. Below are some negative adjective words that start with D.

1. Dangerous

Definition: someone who intends to harm himself or others

Synonyms: injurious, threatening

Example: The patient of schizophrenia is a dangerous person.

2. Deceitful

Definition: someone who is involved in and guilty of dishonesty

Synonyms: untruthful, crooked

Example: She is very deceitful, this is why it is important to keep your precious belongings away from her.

3. Disheartened

Definition: someone who has lost all his confidence, determination and courage

Synonyms: dispirited, deprived

Example: When we lost our final match, all of the team members were very disheartened.

4. Discouraged

Definition: someone who has lost all his enthusiasm and bravery

Synonyms: fearful, anxious, afraid

Example: She felt discouraged when she faced a heavy loss.

5. Demoralized

Definition: someone who has lost all his hope and confidence

Synonyms: disheartened, discouraged

Example: His actions easily declare the fact that he is demoralized.

6. Distressing

Definition: someone who is facing extreme pain, sorrow and anxiety

Synonyms: miserable, grieve

Example: I heard she grew up in a distressing family.

7. Defiant

Definition: someone who resists authority, power and opposition

Synonyms: obstinate, stubborn

Example: His defiant personality made him ruder.

Negative Adjectives That Start with D to Describe an Event

Besides for people, describing words beginning with D can be used to describe events as well.

1. Deplorable

Definition: something that deserves very strong condemnation

Synonyms: shameful, dishonourable

Example: The condition of most of our Southern villages is deplorable.

2. Dank

Definition: something that is disagreeably cold, musty and damp

Synonyms: humid, moist

Example: After boiling pasta for a long time, my kitchen became dank.

3. Deafening

Definition: something that is extremely noisy and makes it impossible to hear any other sound

Synonyms: ear-shattering, ear-piercing

Example: The whole situation was so deafening, that I could not talk over the phone.

4. Deadly

Definition: something that has the potential to cause a death

Synonyms: lethal, mortal

Example: A wildfire broke out, it was a deadly situation for the wild animals because they had no way to escape it.

5. Disputable

Definition: something that is not factual or established

Synonyms: questionable, debatable, arguable

Example: When different political parties unite, the decisions made are always disputable for the public.

6. Debatable

Definition: something that is not agreeable for the common people

Synonyms: doubtful uncertain and unclear

Example: It is strongly debatable whether the developing countries will ever come out of the financial recession.

7. Darkling

Definition: something that is dark and obscure

Synonyms: uncannily, threatening

Example: Everything became darkling, after the sunset.

Negative Adjectives That Start with D to Describe a Place

In this section, we’ll discuss some negative adjectives that start with D to describe a place. I’m sure some of them are familiar to you.

1. Dark

Definition: a place that has no light at all

Synonyms: unlit, unilluminated

Example: Even the small pond felt abysmal because of the pitch dark night.

2. Debased

Definition: a place that has lost its original quality and value

Synonyms: fake, false, imitation

Example: The abandoned house at the corner of the street is now debased.

3. Degraded

Definition: a place or something that describes or displays disregard and disrespect

Synonyms: disgrace, cheapen

Example: If the outdoor furniture is not looked after, it becomes degraded.

4. Devalued

Definition: to underestimate and decrease the importance or worth of any place or thing

Synonyms: decry, defame, traduce,

Example: When my lawn got full of weeds, it was devalued in the market.

5. Deckled

Definition: a place that has rough edges

Synonyms: bordered, fenced

Example: My chicken coop is deckled, this is why it does not allow the water to flow in.

6. Defunct

Definition: a place that is not functional or existing anymore

Synonyms: inoperative, disused

Example: The science laboratory of our college is defunct.

Negative Adjectives That Start with D to Describe Emotions, Personality, and Feelings

When you are feeling negative, be brave to talk it out loud with this list of adjectives that start with D. They will help to dispel the negativity.

1. Drugged

Definition: a person who is unconscious because of taking drugs

Synonyms: intoxicated, anaesthetized

Example: The victim was drugged, to keep him free of pain throughout the surgery.

2. Dowdy

Definition: a person who is unfashionable and lacks smartness

Synonyms: ill-dressed, shabby

Example: When a rich French woman entered the room, all of us looked dowdy.

3. Dishevelled

Definition: a person who is untidy

Synonyms: messy, disordered

Example: The dishevelled appearance of the man and was the reason that he got rejected in the interview.

4. Disarrayed

Definition: a person who is unorganised and shabby

Synonyms: disarranged, unsettled

Example: Everyone was very annoyed when they saw the waitress in a disarrayed appearance.

5. Demode

Definition: a person who is unfashionable, something which is outdated and out of fashion

Synonyms: old fashioned, unstylish

Example: The big old radio and the wooden benches made my room look demode.

6. Doddering

Definition: a person who is excessively affected by old age

Synonyms: weak, unsteady

Example: He was a doddering old man, so he was given a wheelchair at the entrance of the shopping mall.

Final Thoughts on Adjectives That Start with D

After understanding the proper meaning of an adjective, you can use the above adjectives that start with the letter D where appropriate.

I have explained with detail descriptive words starting with D, which is the fourth alphabet of the English language.

I have divided these adjectives starting with D in 8 different categories, 4 positive and 4 negative, so that you can understand them easily.

By using the above-given adjectives that start with D in your day to day conversation, you can convey your message to others more precisely. So keep on learning.