threaten
|threat/en|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈθrɛtən/
🇬🇧
/ˈθrɛt(ə)n/
imposing danger
Etymology
Etymology Information
'threaten' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'þreatian,' where 'þreat' meant 'crowd or troop.'
Historical Evolution
'þreatian' transformed into the Middle English word 'threten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'threaten.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to crowd or press,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to express an intention to harm.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to express an intention to inflict harm or punishment on someone or something.
The dark clouds threatened rain.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to be a source of danger or risk to something.
The rising sea levels threaten coastal cities.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40