Meaning & Definition of word "Afraid"

Afraid

/əˈfreɪd/

adjective:

  • 1. feeling fear or anxiety; frightened.
    • Example: She was afraid of the dark.
  • 2. worried that something bad might happen.
    • Example: He is afraid he might lose his job.
  • 3. having a feeling of apprehension or unease.
    • Example: 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.

Related Words

fear:

An unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous.

anxiety:

A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome.

Slang Meanings of afraid

Meaning: Freaked out

Example Sentence: He was totally freaked out when he saw the ghost.

Meaning: Scared stiff

Example Sentence: I was scared stiff during that horror movie.