VocabDictionary

terror

/หˆtษ›r.ษ™r/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

Extreme fear or a state of intense dread.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œThe child screamed in terror when the thunder shook the house.โ€
  • โ€œThe sudden appearance of the predator filled the herd with terror.โ€
2.noun

A person or thing that causes extreme fear or annoyance.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œThe toddler was a little terror, running around the store and knocking over displays.โ€
  • โ€œThe dictator ruled through a reign of terror.โ€
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for โ€œterrorโ€.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'terror' (great fear, dread, alarm), which stems from the Proto-Indo-European root '*tres-' meaning 'to tremble'. It is cognate with the Greek 'trein' (to flee, be afraid) and the Sanskrit 'trasati' (he trembles).

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'terror' being a 'tear-er'โ€”something so scary it makes you want to cry or tears you apart with fear.

Frequently Asked Questions About โ€œterrorโ€

1. What is the meaning of โ€œterrorโ€ in English?

In English, terror (noun) is defined as: โ€œExtreme fear or a state of intense dread.โ€.

2. How do you use โ€œterrorโ€ in a sentence?

โ€œThe child screamed in terror when the thunder shook the house.โ€

3. What are English synonyms of โ€œterrorโ€?

Common synonyms include:horror,dread,panic,fright

4. What is the etymology and word origin of โ€œterrorโ€?

Derived from the Latin 'terror' (great fear, dread, alarm), which stems from the Proto-Indo-European root '*tres-' meaning 'to tremble'. It is cognate with the Greek 'trein' (to flee, be afraid) and the Sanskrit 'trasati' (he trembles).