Definition

At risk of becoming endangered or facing danger, often used to describe plants or animals that may not survive in the wild.

Example

The species is considered threatened due to habitat loss and climate change.

Conversation

Did you hear about the animals that are threatened in our area?

Yeah, it’s really sad how many species are at risk.

I read that some local plants are also threatened by climate change.

That's concerning! We need to do more to protect them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Threatened → It is formed from "threat" (from Old English "þreat", meaning a threat or danger) and "-ened" (a suffix indicating a state or condition). The word "threatened" means being in a state of danger or being at risk of harm.

Memory Tip

Think of being in a state of danger or risk — that's what it means to be threatened.

Visually Confused Words