frighten
verb (used with object)
to make afraid or fearful; throw into a fright; terrify; scare.
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.
However, the first few months in Biles’ long-awaited dream home have also included a frightening chapter.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 28, 2026
This is a very real part of life for students at historically black colleges and universities, but that doesn’t make it any less frightening.
From Salon ● Sep. 24, 2026
Natalie said she found the response "disappointing", adding: "I think a lot of people are already frightened and it's more frightening not knowing."
From BBC ● Sep. 24, 2026
It’s the ideal midnight movie, an adroit balance of the funny and the macabre, the frightening and the ridiculous.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 17, 2026
The absence of crocodiles made her swimming lessons slightly less frightening.
From "A Girl Named Disaster" by Nancy Farmer
