frightened

[frahyt-nd] / ˈfraɪt nd /

ADJECTIVE

very scared

Synonyms

STRONGEST

afraid anxious fearful panicky spooked startled unnerved

STRONG

abashed affrighted alarmed butterflies cowed dismayed frozen numb petrified terrified terrorized yellow

WEAK

aghast chicken chicken-hearted have cold feet having kittens hung up in a cold sweat in a panic in a sweat jittery jumpy lily-livered mousy pushing the panic button rabbity running scared scared stiff shaky shivery sissy terror-stricken uptight

Antonyms

STRONGEST

bold brave cool courageous happy unafraid

WEAK

calm comforted

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.

Despite the headlines about the ship and its increasingly frightened passengers, cruise stocks are rallying on Wednesday due to even bigger news: reports that the U.S. and Iran are nearing a peace deal.

From Barron's • May 6, 2026

Today, the mine’s poorly maintained dams still loom over frightened victims of the spill, according to their lawyers.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said he was "angry", "appalled" and "disgusted" that Jewish people were "living their lives frightened".

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

Jane said when she shared her concerns that she was "frightened" of Al Fayed, she was told the "rumours were not true" and she had nothing to worry about.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

But, sadly for Abel, not nearly as many as frightened Americans seemed to think.

From "Fallout: Spies, Superbombs, and the Ultimate Cold War Showdown" by Steve Sheinkin

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