afraid

a-fraid · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Feeling fear or anxiety; frightened.

  2. 2.

    Worried or anxious about possible consequences.

  3. 3.

    (Polite formula) Used to express polite regret when giving unwelcome information.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    afraid of one's own shadow — Extremely timid or easily frightened.
  • •
    I'm afraid so — Used to confirm something regrettable.
  • •
    I'm afraid not — Used to politely deny or refuse something.
  • •
    afraid for — Worried about someone's safety or wellbeing.

Related words

Antonyms: brave, fearless, unafraid
See also: fear, frightened, scared
Synonyms: fearful, frightened, scared, terrified

Etymology

From Middle English affrayed, past participle of affraien ("to frighten"), from Anglo-French afrayer, esfreer, from Vulgar Latin exfridare ("to disturb the peace").