menace

¹men·ace

noun \ˈme-nəs\

Definition of MENACE

1

: a show of intention to inflict harm : threat

2

a : one that represents a threat : danger b : an annoying person

Examples of MENACE

1. There was an atmosphere of menace in the city.
2. She could hear the menace in his voice.

Origin of MENACE

Middle English manace, from Anglo-French manace, menace, from Latin minacia, from minac-, minax threatening, from minari to threaten — more at mount

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to MENACE

Synonyms: hazard, imminence, danger, peril, pitfall, risk, threat, trouble

Related Words: snare, trap; booby trap

Near Antonyms: guard, protection, safeguard, shield, ward; asylum, harbor, haven, refuge, retreat, shelter

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Rhymes with MENACE

tenace, tennis, Venice