Langimage
English

terrible

|ter/ri/ble|

B1

/ˈterəbl/

causing fear or being very bad

Etymology
Etymology Information

'terrible' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'terribilis', where 'terrere' meant 'to frighten'.

Historical Evolution

'terribilis' transformed into the Old French word 'terrible', and eventually became the modern English word 'terrible'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'causing fear', but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'extremely bad' and 'causing fear'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

causing great fear or alarm; dreadful.

The terrible storm caused widespread damage.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

extremely bad or unpleasant.

The food at the restaurant was terrible.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35