What does gory mean?
Gory describes something involving blood, gruesome violence, or disturbing graphic detail. Its literal sense refers to being covered in blood, while its more common contemporary use characterizes images, descriptions, or stories that reveal violence or horror in explicit and vivid terms. For example, a film may be called “too gory for children” because it contains graphic scenes, while a news report may refer to “gory details” of an accident. The word is direct and emotionally forceful, often stronger and more immediate than alternatives such as graphic or gruesome. Although frequently encountered in journalism, entertainment reviews, and informal conversation, it can also carry a sensational tone when applied merely for effect. Gory is especially useful when the presence of blood or the explicit portrayal of violence is itself important to the description.
adjectiveCovered in or involving blood; bloody. Also, involving gruesome violence or extremely graphic detail.
- Involving blood or being covered in blood.
- Involving gruesome violence, horror, or graphic detail.
"The documentary was so gory that several younger viewers were asked to leave."
"The screen was gory with blood after the explosion."
"The article contains gory descriptions that may disturb some readers."
Gory comes from an Old English word for blood and gore, giving a vivid word for scenes that reveal violence in all its graphic detail.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does gory come from?
Gory developed in English from an older word associated with Old English gōr, meaning blood or gore. Its original sense was “bloody” or “covered in blood,” and it later acquired the broader sense of involving gruesome or horrific detail. The modern word is related to gore and to the archaic form gorr, both preserving an older Germanic vocabulary for blood.
Related word forms
How gory is actually used
Gory is common in general and media usage, especially in the phrase “gory details.” It can sound informal or sensational, although it remains suitable for factual discussion when graphic content needs to be identified clearly.