Terrible - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

Something terrible is extremely bad or serious, causing fear, shock, or distress. It's more than just unpleasant; it's something that fills you with dismay or concern. It suggests a severe negative impact, often with lasting consequences. Think of it as a major catastrophe unfolding. It's not just a bad day; it's a day where everything goes wrong in a spectacular fashion. It’s like failing all your exams in one day. 'Terrible' denotes a significant degree of negativity and misfortune.

Etymology

The word 'terrible' originates from the Latin 'terribilis,' meaning 'frightful' or 'dreadful.' This comes from 'terrere,' which means 'to frighten.' The idea is rooted in causing intense fear. It entered the English language in the 14th century. It maintained its strong association with fear and dread. Related words like 'terror' and 'terrify' share the same origin, emphasizing the shared concept of causing fear.

Related Words

Examples

• "The weather was terrible, with heavy rain and strong winds."
• "She had a terrible accident and broke her leg."
• "The news reported a terrible tragedy in the local community."
• "He felt terrible after failing the important exam."

Encouragement

Use 'terrible' to describe situations that are genuinely bad or distressing. It's a versatile word that can add weight to your descriptions. Just remember to use it thoughtfully and avoid overusing it. 👍

Learn More

📖 Learn more on Wikipedia