Definition

Intended to frighten or alarm people.

Example

The movie was filled with scare scenes that made everyone jump.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you hear that new horror movie has some really scare scenes?

Yeah, I've heard it uses some intense scare tactics to get the audience jumping.

I enjoy a good thrill, but I prefer not to be too scare by them.

Same here! I like a little suspense, but not too much fear.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To become frightened or to feel fear.

Example

The loud noise made me scare.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I watched a horror movie last night, and it really made me scare easily.

Oh no, those movies always get to me too!

I jumped at every little sound after that.

Definition

A feeling of sudden fear or alarm, often caused by something unexpected or frightening.

Example

The loud noise gave me a scare.

Conversation

Did you hear about that scare at the mall yesterday?

Yeah, I saw it on the news; it sounded really serious.

I can't believe people were actually running in panic, it must have been terrifying.

Definition

To cause someone to feel fear or anxiety suddenly.

Example

The loud noise scared the children.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that loud noise outside?

Yeah, it really scared me for a second!

I know, right? It felt like something was going to happen.

Root Explanation

Scare → This word originates from Middle English 'scaren', which is derived from Old Norse 'skera', meaning to cut or to separate. The word 'scare' refers to the act of causing someone to feel fear or to be startled, as if something has cut through their sense of safety.

Memory Tip

Imagine something that 'cuts' through your calmness, causing you to feel fear — that's how 'scare' relates to the feeling of being startled.

Visually Confused Words