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- Fear - meaning & definition
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Translate files Fear
/fɪə/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A feeling of anxiety or apprehension caused by the presence or anticipation of danger.
Her heart raced with fear as she heard the strange noises in the dark.
A concern or worry about something that may happen.
He had a fear of failing the exam and disappointing his parents.
A feeling of reverential awe or respect mixed with dread, often used in a religious context.
The congregation listened with fear as the preacher spoke of the consequences of sin.
verb
To be afraid of; to perceive as danger or a threat.
She fears that she might lose her job due to the company's downsizing.
To feel anxious or apprehensive about something.
He fears going to the dentist after his last visit was so painful.
To regard with reverential awe or respect.
He fears the power of nature, recognizing its ability to destroy.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old English 'fǣr' meaning 'danger, peril, fear'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
face your fears
To confront what you are afraid of.
fear of the unknown
An anxiety regarding things that are unfamiliar.
fear and loathing
An intense and often irrational fear combined with hostility.
Related Words
fearful
Feeling afraid.
fearlessness
Lack of fear.
fearsome
Causing fear or dread.
Slang Meanings
scaredy-cat
He won't go on the rollercoaster; he's such a scaredy-cat.
chicken
Don't be a chicken; just ask her out!