Definition

Causing a strong feeling of fear or horror.

Example

The movie was filled with bloodcurdling screams that made everyone jump.

Conversation

Did you hear that bloodcurdling scream last night?

Yeah, it really freaked me out!

I thought it was from a horror movie or something.

Same here! It definitely made me jump.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bloodcurdling → It is formed from "blood" (from Old English "blōd", meaning the red liquid that circulates in the bodies of humans and animals) and "curdling" (from the verb "curdle", which means to coagulate or thicken, often used in the context of milk). The word "bloodcurdling" describes something that causes a chilling or terrifying reaction, as if it thickens the blood with fear.

Memory Tip

Imagine a scene so terrifying that it makes your blood feel like it's thickening or curdling — that's the essence of what bloodcurdling means.

Visually Confused Words