Definitions

frightened

[frahyt-nd] / ˈfraɪt nd /

ADJECTIVE

very scared

Synonyms

STRONGEST

afraid anxious fearful panicky spooked startled unnerved

STRONG

abashed affrighted alarmed butterflies cowed dismayed frozen numb petrified terrified terrorized yellow

WEAK

aghast chicken chicken-hearted have cold feet having kittens hung up in a cold sweat in a panic in a sweat jittery jumpy lily-livered mousy pushing the panic button rabbity running scared scared stiff shaky shivery sissy terror-stricken uptight

Antonyms

STRONGEST

bold brave cool courageous happy unafraid

WEAK

calm comforted

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The eruption of an Icelandic volcano kept some artists from getting to the festival, including The Cribs and Frightened Rabbit.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026

Frightened and not knowing where to go, they hastily took cover under the steps of a villa whose owners had themselves left everything on the table and hurried off.

From Barron's • Mar. 14, 2026

Frightened dogs in the street tried to find a spot to lie down between women and children.

From BBC • Nov. 8, 2023

That episode, "Self-Help for Frightened Liberals," is well worth your time.

From Salon • Oct. 1, 2023

Frightened eyes and a fountain looked back at Ammu.

From "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy

Vocabulary lists containing frightened

In the Mood? 100 Words to Describe Emotions

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Yikes! Synonyms for "Scared"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Hooked on a Feeling, List 2

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!