terror

ter·ror

noun \ˈter-ər, ˈte-rər\

Definition of TERROR

1

: a state of intense fear

2

a : one that inspires fear : scourge

b : a frightening aspect <the terrors of invasion>

c : a cause of anxiety : worry

d : an appalling person or thing; especially : brat

3

: reign of terror

4

: violent or destructive acts (as bombing) committed by groups in order to intimidate a population or government into granting their demands <insurrection and revolutionary terror>

— ter·ror·less \-ləs\ adjective

Examples of TERROR

1. The sound of guns being fired fills me with terror.
2. Many civilians fled in terror.
3. a terror that is still fresh in her memory
4. the terrors of life in the jungle
5. a regime that rules by terror
6. bombings and other acts of terror
7. These people have been living with terror and the threat of terror for many years.
8. a campaign of terror against ethnic minority groups

Origin of TERROR

Middle English, from Anglo-French terrour, from Latin terror, from terrēre to frighten; akin to Greek trein to be afraid, flee, tremein to tremble — more at tremble

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to TERROR

Synonyms

affliction, hang-up, demon, torment

Related Words

bête noire, bogey (also bogie or bogy), bugaboo, bugbear, hobgoblin, ogre

Near Antonyms

aplomb, assurance, boldness, confidence, self-assurance, self-confidence; bravery, courage, courageousness, daring, dauntlessness, doughtiness, fearlessness, fortitude, gallantry, hardihood, intrepidity, intrepidness, stoutness, valor; audacity, guts, nerve

See Synonym Discussion at fear

Rhymes with TERROR

airer, bearer, carer, error, sharer, starer, swearer, wearer