Terror
/ˈtɛrər/
Definitions
2 meaningsIntense and overwhelming fear; dread.
/ˈtɛrər/
Extreme fear
The storm brought with it a wave of terror.
💡 Simply: Terror is when you feel super, super scared! Like when you're watching a scary movie and hide under the covers.
👶 For kids: Terror is when you are really, really scared.
More Examples
The thought of public speaking filled him with terror.
How It's Used
"The news caused widespread terror in the community."
"She experienced terror as the plane began to fall."
The use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims or objectives.
/ˈtɛrər/
Violence for political purposes
The attack was an act of terror designed to destabilize the country.
💡 Simply: Terror can also mean using scary violence to get what you want in politics, like when someone tries to scare people into agreeing with them.
👶 For kids: Terror is also when bad people use scary things to hurt people and get what they want.
More Examples
The group used terror as a political weapon.
How It's Used
"The government condemned the acts of terror."
"The Reign of Terror in France was marked by violence."
Synonyms
Dread
Fear
Fright
Horror
Panic
Coercion
Intimidation
Idioms & expressions
rule by terror
A government or system that maintains control through fear and violence.
"The regime established a rule by terror, suppressing all dissent."
state of terror
A situation or period marked by widespread fear and violence.
"The city was plunged into a state of terror after the bombings."
From Old French *terror* or Latin *terror*, meaning 'great fear, dread'. The word's usage intensified during the French Revolution.
The word gained prominence during the French Revolution (1789-1799), particularly referring to the 'Reign of Terror' where political opponents were executed.
Memory tip
Imagine a terrifying scream that echoes in your mind whenever you think of the word terror.