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Definition of terrifying

terrifying

/ˈtɛr.əˌfaɪ.ɪŋ/
ter · ri · fy · ing
Adverb:terrifyingly
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terrifying Lexical Profile

terrifying Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Causing extreme fear, dread, or panic.

Example

"Navigating the narrow mountain pass during the blizzard was a terrifying experience for the drivers."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for terrifying

• Nearby Words

terrified
terrifier
terrify
terrifying
terrifyingly
terrine
territorial

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed as the participial adjective of 'terrify', borrowed in the late 16th century from Latin 'terrificare' ('to frighten'), from 'terrere' ('to fill with fear, tremble') and 'facere' ('to make').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Terrifying. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/terrifying
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