Frightened

Definition

Frightened is an adjective that describes a state of feeling fear, alarm, or distress caused by the perception of danger, threat, or unexpected events. It denotes an emotional reaction to fear.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb (past tense and past participle of "frighten")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfraɪtnd/
• Respelling: FRIGHT-nd

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfraɪtnd/
• Respelling: FRIGHT-nd

Etymology

The word "frightened" is derived from the verb "frighten," which originates from Old English "fyrhtan," meaning "to terrify or scare." The root "fyrhto" or "fyrhtu" meant "fear" or "terror." The term evolved through Middle English to acquire its modern form and usage.

Derivatives

• Frightening (adjective)
• Fright (noun)
• Frightful (adjective)
• Unfrightened (adjective)
• Frightenedly (adverb)

Synonyms

• Afraid
• Terrified
• Scared

Antonyms

• Brave
• Calm
• Fearless

Usage

The adjective "frightened" is used to describe an emotional state, as in "She was frightened by the sudden noise." It is also used figuratively to describe a hesitant or cautious approach, as in "He looked frightened to make a decision."

Related Terms

• Fear: An emotional response to perceived danger.
• Alarm: A sudden feeling of fear or concern.
• Panic: An intense, immediate feeling of fear.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Feeling fear or apprehension: Describes an emotional state of being scared or alarmed.
  • Example: "The child was frightened of the dark."
• Caused by a specific event or situation: Indicates the source of fear or distress.
  • Example: "She looked frightened when the dog barked suddenly."

Verb (past tense of frighten)

• To cause fear or alarm: Indicates the act of inducing fright in someone or something.
  • Example: "The loud thunder frightened the children."