petrify
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpɛtrɪfaɪ/
KK: /ˈpɛtrɪfaɪ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To turn into stone or to become very hard and unyielding, often used metaphorically to describe a state of being frozen in fear or shock.
Example
When she saw the giant spider, she seemed to petrify in place, unable to move.
Tense Forms
Past: petrified
Past Participle: petrified
Conversation
Did you see that documentary about volcanoes?
Yeah, it was fascinating how they can petrify everything around them.
I never knew lava could cause such dramatic changes.
Right? It's amazing how nature can petrify landscapes in an instant.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
harden
solidify
calcify
Antonyms
soften
liquefy
melt
transitive verb
Definition
To make someone very frightened or shocked, so that they cannot move or think clearly.
Example
The sudden loud noise seemed to petrify the children, leaving them frozen in place.
Tense Forms
Past: petrified
Past Participle: petrified
Conversation
Did you see that horror movie last night?
Yeah, it really petrified me!
I know, right? The jump scares were insane!
Root Explanation
Petrify → It is formed from "petra" (meaning rock) and "-fy" (meaning to make). The word "petrify" means to make into stone or to turn into rock.
Memory Tip
Imagine something being 'made into rock' — 'petra' means rock, and '-fy' means to make.
Visually Confused Words
unpetrify
pestify
metrify
vestrify
spherify
prettify
plentify
etherify