Need another word for Petrified? Use these synonyms of Petrified from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
frightened
terrified
scared
alarmed
shocked
horrified
intimidated
awed
dismayed
disheartened
discouraged
depressed
demoralized
paralyzed
frozen
stunned
dazed
bewildered
perplexed
flabbergasted
astonished
amazed
appalled
aghast
horrified
petrified
spooked
frightened
terrorized
traumatized
panicked
anxious
fearful
apprehensive
uneasy
nervous
high-strung
on edge
jittery
jumpy
fearful
phobic
hysterical
Meaning of Petrified
The primary meaning of the word "Petrified" is being extremely frightened or scared.
Definitions
- Oxford Languages defines "Petrified" as feeling extremely frightened or scared, or so frightened that one is unable to move or act.
- * It can also refer to something that has been turned into stone, or has become stiff and immobile.
Etymology of Petrified
The word "Petrified" has its roots in the Latin word "petra," meaning stone or rock, and the verb "facere," meaning to make.
Historically, the word was used to describe something that had been turned into stone, and later it evolved to include the meaning of being extremely frightened or scared.
Example Uses
- The news of the accident left her petrified and unable to speak.
- * The hikers were petrified when they encountered a bear on the trail.
- * The thought of public speaking left him petrified and anxious.