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terrifying

adjective

ter·​ri·​fy·​ing ˈter-ə-ˌfī-iŋ How to pronounce terrifying (audio)
ˈte-rə-
Synonyms of terrifyingnext
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.
The disregard for one’s health is terrifying. Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 7 Dec. 2025 The famously outgoing media personality clammed up, on air and off, thanks to a terrifying stranger. Ross Raihala, Twin Cities, 7 Dec. 2025 In the world of The Bone Temple, the infected are no longer the greatest threat to survival - the inhumanity of the survivors can be stranger and more terrifying. Griff Griffin, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2025 After clawing her way back to life, Maddie struggles with terrifying visions and the weight of protecting both the living and the dead while Simon (Kristian Ventura)–trapped in the afterlife–becomes obsessed with the secrets buried in Split River High’s scars. Glenn Garner, Deadline, 6 Dec. 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 8 Dec. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on terrifying

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