luridness n the journalistic use of subject matter that appeals to vulgar tastes n unnatural lack of color in the skin (as from bruising or sickness or emotional distress) n the quality of being ghastly Usage(s) The total number of deaths and the luridness of detail seem to grow as they are passed from traveler to traveler. First, there is the sheer luridness of the case. The luridness, at times, seems used for corn rather than comedy. Synonym(s) sensationalism lividness lividity paleness pallidness pallor wanness achromasia ghastliness grimness gruesomeness