Langimage
English

horrid

|hor-rid|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈhɔɹɪd/

🇬🇧

/ˈhɒrɪd/

causing horror or strong aversion

Etymology
Etymology Information

'horrid' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'horridus', where the verb 'horrēre' meant 'to bristle'.

Historical Evolution

'horrid' changed from the Latin adjective 'horridus' and entered English in the 16th century as 'horrid' with senses of roughness and causing dread; over time the sense shifted toward 'causing horror or disgust'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'bristling, rough', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'causing horror or severe displeasure'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

causing horror or disgust; shockingly bad or frightening.

The film contained several horrid scenes that made many viewers leave early.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

very unpleasant or disagreeable (used for people, situations, or things).

We had horrid weather during our trip, with rain every day.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 3

archaic: rough, bristling; causing one to bristle (original sense).

In older texts, the word 'horrid' can describe something coarse or bristling.

Synonyms

bristlingrough

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/10/20 16:49