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Definitions

dread

[dred] / drɛd /
ADJECTIVE
horrible, terrifying
Synonyms
STRONG
alarming frightening
WEAK
awe-inspiring awful creepy dire frightful shuddersome terrible
Antonyms
WEAK
pleasant pleasing welcomed wonderful
NOUN
fear
Synonyms
STRONGEST
apprehension awe consternation dismay horror panic phobia terror trepidation
STRONG
affright alarm aversion creeps fright funk jitters worriment
WEAK
cold feet goose bumps stage fright trepidity
Antonyms
STRONGEST
calm calmness confidence contentment happiness
WEAK
bravery courage encouragement want welcoming
VERB
anticipate with horror
Synonyms
STRONG
apprehend cringe fear quake shudder tremble
WEAK
be afraid have cold feet misdoubt shrink from
Antonyms
STRONG
steady
WEAK
encourage want welcome

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.

One piece of data triggers optimism, followed just days, or hours, later by apocalyptic dread.

From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026

Executive produced by the Duffer Brothers of ‘Stranger Things,’ this series follows an engaged couple on an overlong and aimless journey filled with creepiness and dread.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

A decade has passed since Louise James returned from a hen weekend feeling a sense of dread that a tragedy would unfold.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

There’s no reaching past something sticky or spoiled, no quiet dread lurking in the crisper drawer.

From Salon • Mar. 19, 2026

Half in excitement, half in dread, he looked at the second blank space.

From "Rowan of Rin" by Emily Rodda