dread
|dread|
B2
/drɛd/
fear or apprehension
Etymology
Etymology Information
'dread' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'drēdan,' where 'drēd' meant 'fear' or 'anxiety.'
Historical Evolution
'drēdan' changed from Old English to Middle English 'dreden' and eventually became the modern English word 'dread.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'fear or anxiety,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a strong feeling of fear or apprehension.
She felt a sense of dread as the storm approached.
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Verb 1
to anticipate with great apprehension or fear.
He dreads going to the dentist.
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Adjective 1
causing great fear or apprehension.
The dread news of the accident spread quickly.
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40