Meaning & Definition
adjective
feeling fear or anxiety; frightened.
She was afraid of the dark.
worried that something bad might happen.
He is afraid he might lose his job.
having a feeling of apprehension or unease.
The child was afraid to speak in front of the class.
Etymology
Middle English, from 'afraid' meaning 'frightened' derived from the Old English 'afrægen', meaning 'to terrify'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
afraid of one's own shadow:
Very timid or apprehensive.
afraid to ask:
Reluctant to inquire due to fear of the response.
not afraid of:
Not intimidated by something or someone.
Slang Meanings
Freaked out
He was totally freaked out when he saw the ghost.
Scared stiff
I was scared stiff during that horror movie.