terrify

UK: ˈter.ɪ.faɪ | US: ˈter.ə.faɪ

Definition

  1. vt. to cause extreme fear or dread in someone

  2. vt. to overwhelm with terror

Structure
terr <fear>ify <verb suffix>terr <fear>ify <verb suffix>
Etymology

The word "terrify" traces back to Latin terrere (to frighten) combined with the suffix -ify, which turns nouns into verbs meaning "to make." Originally used in Late Middle English, it literally means "to make someone feel terror." The root terr- appears in related words like "terror" and "terrible," consistently conveying fear or dread.

Examples

  1. The horror movie was designed to terrify the audience.

  2. Loud thunderstorms terrify my dog.

  3. The thought of failing the exam terrified her.

  4. His menacing glare could terrify anyone.

  5. Urban legends often terrify children.