Need another word for Frightening? Use these synonyms of Frightening from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
terrifying
scary
intimidating
alarming
fearsome
daunting
chilling
spine-tingling
hair-raising
blood-curdling
petrifying
horrifying
dreadful
appalling
disturbing
unsettling
unnerving
fearful
awesome
awe-inspiring
formidable
forbidding
ominous
menacing
threatening
dire
gruesome
ghastly
macabre
gruesome
Meaning of Frightening
The primary meaning of the word "Frightening" is causing fear or alarm.
Definitions
- Causing fear or alarm, especially in a sudden or unexpected way
- Causing someone to feel afraid or intimidated
- Unpleasantly or surprisingly scary
Etymology of Frightening
The word "Frightening" has its roots in the Old English word "fyrhtan," which means to frighten, and the suffix "-ing," which forms the present participle
The word evolved from the Middle English word "frighten," which meant to fill with fear or fright
The word has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe something that causes fear or alarm
Example Uses
- The frightening sound of the howling wind made it difficult to sleep
- The movie was so frightening that I had to cover my eyes during the scary parts
- The prospect of public speaking can be frightening for many people
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
reassuring
comforting
soothing
calming
pleasant
welcoming
inviting
friendly
gentle
mild
moderate
tame
benign
harmless
innocuous
non-threatening
unalarming
untroubling
undaunting
unintimidating
unfearsome