terrify

verb

ter·​ri·​fy ˈter-ə-ˌfī How to pronounce terrify (audio)
ˈte-rə-
terrified; terrifying
Synonyms of terrifynext

transitive verb

1
a
: to drive or impel by menacing : scare
b
: deter, intimidate
2
: to fill with terror

Synonyms

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Examples of terrify in a Sentence

The thought of dying alone terrifies her. the prospect of speaking in front of a huge crowd of people absolutely terrifies me
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Since its debut in 2012, the NBC procedural drama has released 13 seasons featuring its ensemble of dedicated firefighters, paramedics and rescue personnel who work to save the city’s residents from terrifying life-or-death situations. — Emily Blackwood, People.com, 27 Mar. 2025 Charli adds as the woman’s face subtly transforms from patient to terrified. — Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 26 Mar. 2025 What is your trick for acting terrified in front of the camera? — William Earl, Variety, 14 Mar. 2025 Still, trading the stability of a corporate career for entrepreneurship can feel liberating and terrifying at the same time. — Veranda Adkins, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for terrify

Word History

Etymology

Latin terrificare, from terrificus

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of terrify was in the 15th century

Rhymes for terrify

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Browse Nearby Words

terrific
terrify
terrifying
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Cite this Entry

“Terrify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terrify. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

terrify

verb
ter·​ri·​fy ˈter-ə-ˌfī How to pronounce terrify (audio)
terrified; terrifying
: to fill with terror
terrifyingly
-ˌfī-iŋ-lē
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on terrify

Nglish: Translation of terrify for Spanish Speakers

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