fear
noun
a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined; the feeling or condition of being afraid.
fearing
-
present participleof fear.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
"The hardest part is not fearing for my own safety, but fearing for my children and family," he said.
From Barron's ● Aug. 16, 2026
Many residents spent the night sleeping on the street, fearing more deadly aftershocks or because their homes had sustained damage.
From Barron's ● Aug. 11, 2026
Employers sometimes err on the side of caution, fearing lawsuits, and try to avoid terminating anyone on a job-protected leave.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 4, 2026
The Department of Homeland Security said the officer opened fire after "fearing for public safety".
From BBC ● Jul. 14, 2026
I brushed her head away, fearing infection, but she persisted.
From "Woodsong" by Gary Paulsen
