terrifying

adjective

ter·​ri·​fy·​ing ˈter-ə-ˌfī-iŋ 

ˈte-rə-

1

: causing terror or apprehension

2

: of a formidable nature

terrifyingly adverb

Synonyms of terrifying

• frightening
• scary
• formidable
• horrible
• terrible
• intimidating

Examples of terrifying in a Sentence

The thought of dying alone was terrifying.

heard a terrifying noise coming from the next room

Recent Examples on the Web

The 11 men who remained spent a terrifying night on board before departing at dawn. — Terry W. Hartle, Christian Science Monitor, 6 July 2026

In the film, Tanjiro, Nezuko and the Hashira are drawn into the Infinity Castle, where the Demon Slayer Corps must confront the terrifying Upper Rank demons. — Tim Lammers, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026

France’s starting lineup is scary and their depth isn’t any less terrifying, and this is without Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike who is currently sidelined through injury. — Graham Ruthven, New York Times, 4 July 2026

Outraged critics say swapping AIPAC for Jews mimics the world's oldest antisemitic conspiracy theories, putting a terrifying target on Jewish backs. — Staff, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for terrifying

• applying
• belying
• complying
• decrying
• defying
• denying
• implying
• outlying
• relying
• replying
• supplying
• undying