Meaning & Definition of word "Frightening"

Frightening

/ˈfraɪtənɪŋ/

adjective:

  • 1. causing fear or anxiety; terrifying.
    • Example: The frightening movie kept me up all night.
  • 2. causing a feeling of extreme fear or dread.
    • Example: The thunderstorm was frightening for the children.
  • 3. causing alarm or concern.
    • Example: The report on climate change presents frightening statistics.
  • 4. evoking a strong emotional reaction associated with fear.
    • Example: She gave a frightening scream when she saw the spider.

Etymology

From fright + -ening, forming the present participle.

Common Phrases and Expressions

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.

Related Words

fright:

a sudden intense feeling of fear.

terror:

extreme fear.

alarm:

a sudden fear or anxiety.

Slang Meanings of frightening

Meaning: creepy

Example Sentence: That haunted house is really creepy.

Meaning: spooky

Example Sentence: The old graveyard looks super spooky at night.