terrifying

adjective

ter·​ri·​fy·​ing ˈter-ə-ˌfī-iŋ How to pronounce terrifying (audio)
ˈte-rə-
1
: causing terror or apprehension
2
: of a formidable nature
terrifyingly adverb

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Light up your yard this Halloween with massive inflatables or terrifying animatronics. Nora Colomer May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 12 Sep. 2025 Its long-term impact on jobs and the lives of everyday workers is terrifying, especially in times when our government is taking away safety nets for the most vulnerable here and abroad. Laurel Donnellan, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025 In the latest episode, Tootles (Kit Young), one of the Lost Boy hybrids, met his demise, though not because of a terrifying Xenomorph. Christopher Rudolph, PEOPLE, 10 Sep. 2025 For instance, when the Martins were broke, before Christy gained the attention of legendary boxing promoter Don King, Jim, played on screen in a terrifying performance by Ben Foster, would take her to motel rooms to spar with men who would pay for the opportunity. Esther Zuckerman, Time, 6 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for terrifying

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of terrifying was circa 1586

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Cite this Entry

“Terrifying.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terrifying. Accessed 16 Sep. 2025.

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