Definitions

frighten

[frahyt-n] / ˈfraɪt n /

VERB

shock, scare

Synonyms

STRONGEST

agitate alarm astound awe daunt demoralize deter disconcert discourage dishearten dismay faze horrify intimidate perturb petrify startle terrify terrorize unnerve

STRONG

affright browbeat bulldoze chill cow disquiet panic repel spook unhinge

WEAK

chill to the bone curdle the blood disburb discomfort make blood run cold make teeth chatter scare away scare off scare to death stiff strike terror into

Antonyms

STRONGEST

assist assure calm comfort delight embolden encourage expect hearten help inspirit make happy please soothe stimulate urge

WEAK

exhilarate gladden

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.

“What will he say?” could be the most frightening question of all.

From Salon

It’s good to be the King, but a little frightening as well.

From The Wall Street Journal

But they also hold up a reassuring mirror, helping make real-life fears seem somehow less frightening.

From Barron's

“I can understand how this might be upsetting to you. That ‘FBI’ title frightens people sometimes.

From Literature

She knew he hadn’t wanted Nim to be lonely, worried, and frightened—but she had been.

From Literature