Frightening

/ˈfraɪtənɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

causing fear or anxiety; terrifying.

The frightening movie kept me up all night.

causing a feeling of extreme fear or dread.

The thunderstorm was frightening for the children.

causing alarm or concern.

The report on climate change presents frightening statistics.

evoking a strong emotional reaction associated with fear.

She gave a frightening scream when she saw the spider.

From fright + -ening, forming the present participle.

frightening thought

A thought that causes fear or anxiety.

frightening truth

A truth that is disturbing or hard to accept.

frightening experience

An experience that causes significant fear or panic.

fright

a sudden intense feeling of fear.

terror

extreme fear.

alarm

a sudden fear or anxiety.

creepy

That haunted house is really creepy.

spooky

The old graveyard looks super spooky at night.