Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/drɛd/

Definitions

• As a noun: A feeling of great fear or apprehension, often associated with a specific person, event, or situation.
• As a verb: To regard with fear or apprehension, to feel anxious or scared about something.

Usage Examples

• "She was filled with dread as the storm approached." (noun)
• "He dreads the thought of speaking in public." (verb)
• "The children dreaded their visit to the dentist." (verb)

Etymology

From Middle English "dreden" (to fear, dread), derived from Old English "drēogan" meaning to endure, suffer, or fear. The word has been used since the 12th century to describe the feeling of intense fear or anxiety.

Synonyms

• Fear
• Apprehension
• Alarm
• Terror
• Horror

Antonyms

• Bravery
• Courage
• Confidence
• Assurance

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "dread" is generally consistent in English, with slight variations in accents across different regions. In some accents, the vowel sound in "dread" may sound more like "drahd" or "drayd," especially in areas with a non-rhotic accent (such as parts of the UK).

Historical Usage

The word "dread" has been in use for many centuries, first appearing in Old English and evolving through Middle English into its modern form. In early usage, it was more often associated with the sense of "to fear" or "to be afraid of," but over time, it has also come to denote a state of anticipatory fear or anxiety, often in relation to specific events or outcomes. In literature, "dread" has been used to evoke intense emotions of horror, suspense, and foreboding, as seen in works of Gothic fiction.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of "dread" has cultural significance in many traditions. In some cultures, it is linked to superstitions and beliefs in the supernatural, where "dread" is not just fear but also a sense of impending doom. In Western culture, particularly through literature and film, dread is often portrayed as an emotional state preceding a terrible or horrific event, heightening the tension in suspenseful narratives.

More Information

"Dread" is not only a deep sense of fear but also a complex psychological state that involves an intense feeling of anxiety, unease, or forewarning about future events. It is often used in literature, film, and art to evoke strong emotional responses from the audience. Whether in the form of horror films or thrillers, the sensation of dread amplifies the anticipation of what is to come, making it a powerful tool in narrative storytelling. Understanding dread can help one appreciate its cultural and emotional significance across different societies and art forms.