Synonyms of terrorize

terrorize

verb

ˈter-ər-ˌīz 

as in to frighten

to strike with fear

thunderstorms terrorize our cats, who all scamper downstairs when lightning flashes

Synonyms & Similar Words

• frighten
• scare
• terrify
• startle
• spook
• horrify
• panic
• scarify
• shock
• shake
• fright
• affright
• alarm
• amaze
• distract
• give one the creeps
• appall
• make one's flesh creep
• shake up
• worry
• astound
• emasculate
• unsettle
• disturb
• unnerve
• dismay
• demoralize
• awe
• jolt
• dispirit
• daunt
• perturb
• distress
• upset
• floor
• discomfort
• disconcert
• bowl over
• unman
• psych (out)
• disquiet
• chill
• undo
• discompose
• unstring

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• reassure
• assure
• cheer
• soothe
• comfort
• encourage
• inspire
• console
• steel
• solace
• embolden
• hearten

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of terrorize

In the teaser for the six-episode series, which can be seen in its entirety below, a small seaside town is terrorized by a mysterious sea creature. — Joe Otterson, Variety, 28 July 2026

As the island of Widow’s Bay is being terrorized by a powerful force, Loftis and company have been attempting to discover who the last remaining member of the Warren bloodline is. — Derek Lawrence, Entertainment Weekly, 28 July 2026

Laelaps was sent to chase a fox that was terrorizing the Cadmea, a citadel. — Maddie Rhodes, USA Today, 24 July 2026

Morrison helped lead the racist white supremacy campaign of 1898 that terrorized Black citizens and led to policies of segregation, The Observer previously reported. — Chase Jordan july 23, Charlotte Observer, 23 July 2026