Definition

A person who feels fear or anxiety about something.

Example

As a dreader of public speaking, she always felt nervous before giving a presentation.

Conversation

I heard you’re a bit of a dreader when it comes to exams, right?

Yeah, I really don’t enjoy the pressure they bring.

I can relate; being a dreader makes it hard to focus sometimes.

Exactly! I wish I could just enjoy learning without the stress.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'dreader' originates from Old English 'drēad', meaning fear or dread, combined with the suffix '-er', which denotes a person who performs a specific action. Therefore, 'dreader' refers to a person who experiences or embodies dread.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is filled with 'fear' ('drēad') — that's what a 'dreader' is, a person who feels dread.

Visually Confused Words