Frighteners

A 'frightener' refers to something or someone that causes fear, alarm, or terror. This can encompass a wide range of subjects, from real-life threats like criminals or natural disasters, to fictional entities such as monsters or haunted locations, to even abstract concepts like the fear of failure. They are designed to or have the capacity to induce a sense of dread, apprehension, or panic in individuals. The impact of a frightener can vary, from a brief jolt of surprise to a debilitating sense of terror depending on the individual's perception and the intensity of the stimulus.

Frighteners meaning with examples

• The decaying mansion at the end of the street was locally known as a frightener, its broken windows and overgrown yard whispering tales of the previous owners' misfortune. Locals told of eerie noises that would come from the house on full moon nights, a strong sense of unease that seemed to radiate from the property, keeping children from playing nearby.
• The masked man, lurking in the shadows, was a common frightener in the children's games. His appearance, usually at night, would send kids sprinting for safety with wild screams. He was not physically threatening, more of an urban legend, but that added to the mystery. The thought alone of him was enough to keep many from being out late at night.
• The sudden announcement of job cuts acted as a major frightener for the company's employees. Anxiety levels soared, fueled by concerns about financial stability. Many were concerned, not knowing if they would be affected. Some were planning ahead, while others were just in denial, praying the next announcement would be better.
• The approaching storm, with its dark clouds and lightning, served as a natural frightener. People hurried indoors to stay safe, while the booming thunder and the torrential rain created a sense of vulnerability and isolation. The power went out as the wind howled, adding to the drama and fear.