threatening

adjective

threat·​en·​ing ˈthret-niŋ 

ˈthre-tᵊn-iŋ

: expressing or suggesting a threat of harm, danger, etc.

received a threatening message

a threatening manner

: indicating or suggesting the approach of possible trouble or danger

saw threatening clouds on the horizon

threateningly

ˈthret-niŋ-lē, 

ˈthre-tᵊn-iŋ- 

adverb

gestured threateningly

Synonyms of threatening

• impending
• looming
• possible

Examples of threatening in a Sentence

economists warning of a threatening recession

a threatening silence followed the loud thump in the adjoining motel room

threatening rocks lined that narrow stretch of the river through which we would be rafting

Recent Examples on the Web

Two other people were also hospitalized with non-life threatening injuries, according to the Grand Chute Police Department. — Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 7 July 2026

More than 40% of Americans own at least one dog, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association — but an unknown dog can feel threatening, or inconvenient. — Eva Flowe july 2, Charlotte Observer, 2 July 2026

It is considered a serious condition and can be dangerous or life-threatening, especially when contracted by adults over 65, people with weak immune systems and pregnant women. — Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 1 July 2026

There were two people injured and both were taken to the hospital with injuries that are not life-threatening. — Jose Fabian, CBS News, 1 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1530, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing threatening

• life-threatening

Rhymes for threatening

• nonthreatening