afraid
UK: əˈfreɪd | US: əˈfreɪd
adj. feeling fear or anxiety; frightened
adj. reluctant or unwilling (due to fear or concern)
The word "afraid" originates from Middle English affrayed, the past participle of affrayen (to frighten), borrowed from Old French effreer (to disturb or terrify). The Old French term derives from Vulgar Latin exfridāre, combining Latin ex- (intensifier) and Frankish frithu (peace, safety). Ironically, "afraid" evolved from a root meaning "peace" to its opposite—fear—through the idea of "disturbing peace." The prefix a- and suffix -ed solidified its adjectival form in Modern English.
She was afraid of the dark as a child.
He’s afraid to speak in public.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
They were afraid the storm would damage their house.
I’m afraid we’ve run out of time.