fear

//fɪr//
A2Frequency Level 5Neutral
Visual representation of fear

Noun

fearSingular
fearsPlural
1

An unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.

She felt a sudden fear when she heard the strange noise.

2

A feeling of anxiety concerning the outcome of something or the safety of someone.

She lived in fear for her son's safety.

3

The likelihood or risk of something unwelcome happening.

There is no fear of rain today.

Verb

fearedPast tense
fearedPast participle
fearingPresent participle
fearsThird-person singular
1

To be afraid of someone or something as likely to be dangerous, painful, or threatening.

Many people fear spiders.

2

To feel anxiety or apprehension about a possible or probable situation or event.

Many people fear losing their jobs in a recession.

3

To regard someone or something with reverence and awe.

They fear God and follow his teachings.

Synonym