Definition

To frighten someone very much, often by using threats or violence.

Example

The villain tried to terrorise the town with his threats.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about that movie where the villain tries to terrorise the town?

Yeah, it sounds really intense!

I can’t believe they would actually make something that dark.

I know, but it definitely makes for a thrilling story!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Terrorise → It is formed from "terror" (from Latin "terror", meaning great fear) and "-ise" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or to become). The word "terrorise" means to make someone experience great fear or to instill terror in them.

Memory Tip

Think of 'terror' as great fear and remember that to 'terrorise' means to make someone feel that fear.

Visually Confused Words