Meaning & Definition of word "Fear"

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    Fear

    /fɪə/

    noun:

    • 1. A feeling of anxiety or apprehension caused by the presence or anticipation of danger.
      • Example: Her heart raced with fear as she heard the strange noises in the dark.
    • 2. A concern or worry about something that may happen.
      • Example: He had a fear of failing the exam and disappointing his parents.
    • 3. A feeling of reverential awe or respect mixed with dread, often used in a religious context.
      • Example: The congregation listened with fear as the preacher spoke of the consequences of sin.

    verb:

    • 1. To be afraid of; to perceive as danger or a threat.
      • Example: She fears that she might lose her job due to the company's downsizing.
    • 2. To feel anxious or apprehensive about something.
      • Example: He fears going to the dentist after his last visit was so painful.
    • 3. To regard with reverential awe or respect.
      • Example: 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 of fear

    Meaning: scaredy-cat

    Example Sentence: He won't go on the rollercoaster; he's such a scaredy-cat.

    Meaning: chicken

    Example Sentence: Don't be a chicken; just ask her out!