Menace
/ˈmenəs/
Definitions
2 meaningsA person or thing that is likely to cause harm; a threat or danger.
/ˈmenəs/
The storm was a menace to shipping in the area.
💡 Simply: Imagine a wild dog that looks ready to bite. It's a menace because it could hurt you. Menace is anything that could cause harm or danger.
👶 For kids: A menace is something scary that could hurt you.
More Examples
He was considered a menace to society due to his criminal behavior.
The stray dog was a menace to the neighborhood.
How It's Used
"The escaped tiger was a menace to the public."
"The terrorist group posed a significant menace to national security."
To threaten, especially in a hostile manner.
/ˈmenəs/
Threaten, especially in a hostile manner.
The dark clouds menaced a storm.
💡 Simply: Picture someone trying to scare you or make you feel like you're in danger. To 'menace' is to threaten or scare someone.
👶 For kids: To menace is to try to scare someone.
More Examples
He menaced her with a knife.
The gang members menaced the store owner for protection money.
How It's Used
"The bully menaced the smaller children."
"The suspect menaced the witness with a weapon."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
a public menace
A person or thing considered a danger or threat to society or the public.
"The reckless driver was considered a public menace."
From Middle English *menace*, from Old French *menace* (noun), *menacier* (verb), from Vulgar Latin *minacia* (plural) 'threats', from Latin *minae* 'threats'.
The word 'menace' has been used since the 14th century and originally meant 'a threat'. It's usage has remained consistent over time.
Memory tip
Think of the 'men' in menace as the potential for danger.
Word Origin
"threats"