Definition

The state or quality of being very scary or causing fear.

Example

The frightfulness of the haunted house made everyone too scared to enter.

Conversation

Did you see that horror movie last night?

Yeah, it was full of frightfulness and suspense!

I couldn't sleep after watching it.

Same here! The frightfulness really stuck with me.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Frightfulness → It is formed from "fright" (from Old English *fyrht*, meaning fear) and "-fulness" (meaning the state of being full of). The word "frightfulness" means the state of being full of fear or terror.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'full of fear' — 'fright' means fear, and '-fulness' indicates a state of being. This helps you remember that 'frightfulness' refers to a state filled with fear.

Visually Confused Words