Definitions

afraid

[uh-freyd] / əˈfreɪd /

ADJECTIVE

fearful

Synonyms

STRONGEST

anxious apprehensive frightened nervous scared shocked suspicious timid

WEAK

abashed aghast alarmed aroused blanched cowardly cowed daunted discouraged disheartened dismayed distressed disturbed faint-hearted frozen have cold feet horrified in awe intimidated panic-stricken perplexed perturbed petrified rattled run scared scared stiff scared to death spooked startled stunned terrified terror-stricken timorous trembling upset worried

Antonyms

STRONGEST

brave calm happy unafraid unworried

WEAK

bold composed cool courageous eager fearless heroic intrepid undaunted undismayed valiant venturesome

ADJECTIVE

reluctant, regretful

Synonyms

STRONGEST

hesitant loath reluctant sorry unhappy unwilling

WEAK

averse backward disinclined indisposed uneager

Antonyms

STRONGEST

glad happy ready willing

WEAK

bold brave composed cool courageous eager fearless heroic intrepid unafraid undaunted undismayed valiant venturesome

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I needed to finish my career but I was afraid nobody wanted to see me.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

“Most of these clients, because of their immigration status, are afraid to report this to the police,” Carrillo said.

From Salon • May 2, 2026

Arden isn’t afraid to let weirdos be weirdos in a musical that has a healthy suspicion of surface perfection.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

"People are now afraid and it's been taken to a new level."

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

"If you are the only one afraid, skinny rabbit, you are the only one with sense," she croaked.

From "Rowan of Rin" by Emily Rodda