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Meaning of petrifying
The primary meaning of "petrifying" is causing someone to feel extremely frightened or shocked.
Etymology of petrifying
The word "petrifying" comes from the verb "petrify", which is derived from the Latin words "petra", meaning "rock" or "stone", and the suffix "-fy", meaning "to make"
Historically, the word "petrify" was used to describe the process of turning something into stone, and later it took on a figurative meaning of causing someone to become immobile or frozen with fear
Synonyms
frightening
terrifying
alarming
intimidating
daunting
chilling
unnerving
unsettling
horrifying
dreadful
fearsome
formidable
awe-inspiring
shocking
astounding
stunning
breathtaking
hair-raising
spine-tingling
blood-curdling
nerve-wracking
heart-stopping
pulse-pounding
thrilling
electrifying
exhilarating
captivating
enthralling
mesmerizing
spellbinding
Definitions
- Causing someone to feel extremely frightened or shocked
- * So frightening or shocking that someone is unable to move or act
- * In a state of being frightened or shocked
Usage Examples
- The petrifying sound of the rollercoaster dropping down the steep slope
- * The petrifying experience of being lost in a dark forest
- * The petrifying thought of public speaking in front of a large audience