Etymology
The word "awful" comes from the Old English word "aweful," which means "inspiring awe or reverence." It is related to the Old Norse word "agi," meaning "fear" or "terror."
Meaning
Today, the word "awful" is used to describe something that is very bad or unpleasant. It can also be used to describe something that is impressive or awe-inspiring, but this usage is less common.
Origin
The word "awful" was first used in the 13th century to describe things that were inspiring awe or reverence. It was often used to describe religious figures or events. Over time, the word began to be used to describe things that were bad or unpleasant. This usage became more common in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Examples
