scaremonger
|scare-mong-er|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈskɛrˌmʌŋɡər/
🇬🇧
/ˈskeəˌmʌŋɡə/
spreading fear
Etymology
Etymology Information
'scaremonger' originates from English, specifically the combination of 'scare' and 'monger,' where 'scare' meant 'to frighten' and 'monger' meant 'a dealer or trader.'
Historical Evolution
'scaremonger' changed from the Old English word 'mangere' meaning 'merchant' and eventually became the modern English word 'scaremonger.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a trader of fear,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who spreads alarming news.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who spreads frightening or alarming news, often exaggerated or without basis.
The media was accused of being a scaremonger during the crisis.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/06/28 07:45