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Definition of dreaded

dreaded

/ˈdrɛd.ɪd/
dread · ed
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dreaded Lexical Profile

dreaded Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Regarded with great fear, apprehension, or reluctance; causing anxiety or dread.

Example

"The students spent the entire weekend preparing for the dreaded final examination in organic chemistry."

2

Styled in or wearing dreadlocks (informal).

Example

"He tied his long, dreaded hair back with a colorful scarf before stepping onto the stage."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for dreaded
Antonyms
View all antonyms for dreaded

Word Nuance & Usage

Often used attributively before a noun, either literally for something that inspires genuine fear or playfully and ironicaly for a minor, familiar annoyance (such as 'the dreaded Monday morning meeting').

• Rhymes for dreaded

• Nearby Words

drawstring
dray
dread
dreaded
dreadful
dreadfully
dreadfulness

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed as the past participial adjective of 'dread', which comes from Middle English 'dreden' and Old English 'ondrædan' (to fear or be terrified).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Dreaded. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 1, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/dreaded
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