lurid

Definition

Pruriently detailed and sensationalistic about something shocking or horrifying, especially with regard to violence or sex.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin lūridus (“pale yellow, wan”).

Example Sentences

• "The accident was described with lurid detail."
• "Speculating on why publishers rejected it, he wonders whether it was deemed too lurid at the time, especially since Steinbeck was then an unknown author."
• "Fierce o'er their beauty blazed the lurid flame;"