Definition

Feeling fear or being scared; a term used in some regions to describe someone who is frightened.

Example

She felt afeared when she heard the strange noises outside.

Conversation

I feel a bit afeared about going hiking alone tomorrow.

Really? I thought you loved the outdoors!

I do, but the thought of being out there by myself makes me nervous.

I get that! Maybe you should take a friend along.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To be filled with fear or to be afraid of something.

Example

He was afeared of the dark as a child.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I was really afeared of that horror movie we watched last night.

Me too! It was so creepy, I couldn't sleep afterwards.

I usually love scary films, but that one got to me.

Root Explanation

Afeared → This word originates from Old English 'afearod', which is a combination of 'a-' (a prefix indicating a state or condition) and 'fearod' (meaning frightened or afraid). The word 'afeared' means in a state of being frightened or afraid.

Memory Tip

Imagine being in a state of fear — 'a-' indicates a condition, and 'fearod' relates to being frightened. This helps you remember that 'afeared' means to be in a state of fear.

Visually Confused Words