fear

Definitions

1. noun

   A strong, unpleasant feeling you get when you are in danger.

   Examples

   • He was filled with fear when he saw the snake.
   • She spoke with fear in her voice.
2. noun

   A strong fear of a particular thing.

   Examples

   • Not everybody has the same fears.
   • I have a fear of ants.
3. noun

   A thing that frightens you.

   Examples

   • Spiders are her biggest fear.
   • Public speaking was his greatest fear.
4. noun

   Deep respect and awe toward God or a ruler.

   Examples

   • Some people live with fear of God in their hearts.
   • The people felt fear and respect for their king.
   ≈dread
5. noun

   A feeling of worry the day after drinking too much alcohol.

   Examples

   • She felt sick and had the fear after the party.
   • The fear was worse than the headache.
   ≈hangxiety
6. verb

   To be afraid of something or someone.

   Examples

   • I fear the worst will happen.
   • Many children fear the dark.
7. verb

   To feel afraid.

   Examples

   • Never fear. Help is on the way.
   • Do not fear. Everything will be fine.
   ≈be afraid of≈be frightened of≈be scared of≈be terrorise≈terrorize
8. verb

   To worry about someone or something.

   Examples

   • She feared for her children's safety.
   • He feared for his job during the layoffs.
9. verb

   To feel deep respect and awe for something.

   Examples

   • The ancient people feared their gods deeply.
   • He feared the mountain as a holy and dangerous place.
   ≈be in awe of≈revere≈venerate
10. verb

    To be sorry to say something.

    Examples

    • I fear I must say no to your invitation.
    • She feared she had made the wrong choice.