peril
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpɛr.əl/
KK: /ˈpɛrəl/
noun
Definition
A situation or thing that puts someone or something at risk of harm or loss.
Example
The hikers were in peril when the storm hit suddenly.
Conversation
Did you hear about the storm warning for this weekend?
Yeah, they said there's a real peril for flooding in low areas.
Exactly! We should probably avoid going to the beach then.
Good idea! Safety first, right?
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
danger
hazard
risk
Antonyms
safety
security
protection
transitive verb
Definition
To put someone or something in a situation where they might be harmed or face danger.
Example
The storm could peril the small fishing boats at sea.
Tense Forms
Past: periled
Past Participle: periled
Conversation
I heard that climbing those rocks can really peril your safety.
Yeah, I've seen some people get hurt doing that.
It makes me think twice about trying it myself.
Root Explanation
Peril comes from the Old French word 'peril' (meaning danger or risk), which in turn comes from the Latin 'periculum' (meaning trial, danger, or risk). The word 'peril' refers to a state of being in danger or at risk.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old French word for danger, 'peril', to remember that peril means being in a state of danger or risk.
Visually Confused Words
puerile
perkily
pedrail
imperil
prill
perle
perla
pearl