frightful

adjective

fright·​ful ˈfrīt-fəl 

1

: causing intense fear or alarm : terrifying

2

: startling especially in being bad or objectionable

a frightful novel

3

: extreme

frightful thirst

frightfully

ˈfrīt-fə-lē 

adverb

frightfulness noun

Synonyms

• alarming
• dire
• direful
• dread
• dreadful
• fearful
• fearsome
• forbidding
• formidable
• frightening
• ghastly
• hair-raising
• horrendous
• horrible
• horrifying
• intimidating
• redoubtable
• scary
• shocking
• spine-chilling
• terrible
• terrifying

Examples of frightful in a Sentence

As he fell, he let out a frightful scream.

a frightful illness that causes extreme pain

The children made a frightful mess of the kitchen.

Many critics have expressed shock at the song's frightful lyrics.

Recent Examples on the Web

Shot and released ahead of Halloween, the actress and singer stayed on theme, wearing mostly black and keeping her selections to the frightful, dystopian, and surreal. —Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 3 Nov. 2024

Navigating The Treacherous Workplace The workplace is full of frightful challenges. —Jack Kelly, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024

When did parents first become frightful of what is in their kids' Halloween candy? —Greta Cross, USA TODAY, 28 Oct. 2024

Style Beauty Entertainment Shopping Wellness Culture Gifts Video Women of the Year Nailed It The weather outside is frightful, but your nails are so delightful. —Bella Cacciatore, Glamour, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

fright entry 1 + -ful entry 1

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

frightful

adjective

fright·​ful ˈfrīt-fəl 

1

: causing fear or alarm

2

: causing shock or horror

a frightful novel

3

: very strong

a frightful thirst

frightfully

-fə-lē 

adverb

frightfulness noun