"hell" Definition

Definitions for the word "hell" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. v. t.
The place of the dead, or of souls after death; the grave; -- called in Hebrew sheol, and by the Greeks hades.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. v. t.
The place or state of punishment for the wicked after death; the abode of evil spirits. Hence, any mental torment; anguish.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. v. t.
A place where outcast persons or things are gathered
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. v. t.
A dungeon or prison; also, in certain running games, a place to which those who are caught are carried for detention.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. v. t.
A gambling house.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. v. t.
A place into which a tailor throws his shreds, or a printer his broken type.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. v. t.
To overwhelm.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
8. n.
1 place regarded in some religions as the abode of the dead, or of devils and condemned sinners. 2 place or state of misery or wickedness. int. Expressing anger, surprise, etc. the hell (usu. Prec. By what, where, who, etc.) Expressing anger, disbelief, etc. (who the hell is this?; the hell you are!). Beat etc. The hell out of colloq. Beat etc. Without restraint. Come hell or high water no matter what the difficulties. For the hell of it colloq. Just for fun. Get hell colloq. Be severely scolded or punished. Give a person hell colloq. Scold or punish a person. A (or one) hell of a colloq. Outstanding example of (a hell of a mess; one hell of a party). Like hell colloq. 1 not at all. 2 recklessly, exceedingly. [old english]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884
9. n.
1 place regarded in some religions as the abode of the dead, or of devils and condemned sinners. 2 place or state of misery or wickedness. int. Expressing anger, surprise, etc. the hell (usu. Prec. By what, where, who, etc.) Expressing anger, disbelief, etc. (who the hell is this?; the hell you are!). Beat etc. The hell out of colloq. Beat etc. Without restraint.
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884
10. slang
a fashionable gambling-house. Small places of this kind are called “silver hells.” Reason obvious.
Source: The Slang Dictionary, 1864

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "hell" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "hell" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

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