scary

adjective

ˈsker-ē 

scarier; scariest

1

: causing fright : alarming

a scary story

2

: easily scared : timid

3

: feeling alarm or fright : frightened

scarily

ˈsker-ə-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of scary

• terrifying
• frightening
• formidable
• horrible
• terrible
• intimidating

Examples of scary in a Sentence

a scary movie that gave the child nightmares for weeks afterwards

a scary horse who spooked and kicked at its own shadow

Recent Examples on the Web

These jack-o-lantern quesadillas with beans and cheddar are much easier — and less scary. — Jack Dolan, Los Angeles Times, 2 Oct. 2026

But within him—just like everyone else—is something threatening and scary, that can take over under the worst of circumstances. — Literary Hub, 2 Oct. 2026

Perfect for a Halloween party or a night of watching scary movies, this rug is shaped like a large bloody knife. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 2 Oct. 2026

The two met through mutual friends, but Thomas says in the documentary that the relationship quickly became controlling and scary. — Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 30 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for scary

• aerie
• airy
• arie
• barre
• cherry
• clary
• dairy
• eyrie
• faerie
• faery
• fairy
• ferry

Kids Definition

scary

adjective

ˈske(ə)r-ē 

ˈska(ə)r-

scarier; scariest

1

: causing fright : alarming

a scary movie

2

: easily scared : timid

3

: feeling alarm or fright : scared, frightened

scary feeling

scarily

-ə-lē 

adverb