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

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Kevin and Sarah Root described the terrifying early-morning encounter inside their southwest Denver home. —Stepheny Price , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 29 Nov. 2025

As the kids face increasingly terrifying experiences, Charlotte attempts to advocate for Hank, and General Shaw escalates his efforts. —Billie Melissa, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Nov. 2025

Trying to hide in the crowd is terrifying for Bob. —Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 27 Nov. 2025

What follows is a series of strange and terrifying events, including taunting texts and threatening emails to Cari’s boyfriend and his ex that escalate to stalking, arson, murder, and a mind-bending twist no one saw coming. —Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 25 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for terrifying

• amplifying
• beautifying
• certifying
• clarifying
• classifying
• codifying
• crucifying
• edifying
• falsifying
• fortifying
• glorifying
• gratifying