frighten
verb (used with object)
to make afraid or fearful; throw into a fright; terrify; scare.
frighteningly
-
a word derived from
frighten.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
If you only followed the headlines, it was difficult to reconcile the two dominant narratives about Gen Z. Depending on the week, we were either frighteningly reckless or hopelessly boring.
From Salon ● Aug. 15, 2026
Finally, when all is said and done, Nolan emphasizes that “The Odyssey’s” universe “can seem alien, like another world, until it’s not. The modern world frighteningly reminds you that these things don’t change.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 7, 2026
In no time at all, artificial intelligence has gone from stupid to frighteningly smart.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 30, 2026
Ryan Campbell, Durham coach and contemporary of Spencer at Western Australia, said he was "ridiculously and frighteningly fast".
From BBC ● Dec. 1, 2025
Candy is frighteningly good at chess, according to Safer.
From "Liar & Spy" by Rebecca Stead
