Scarer

A 'scarer' is someone or something that instills fear, fright, or alarm. This can be a person intentionally designed to frighten, like a horror movie monster or a prankster, or an object or event that evokes a sense of dread or apprehension. The scarer's primary function is to generate a fear response, either for entertainment, a specific purpose like protecting property, or unintentionally through unexpected events or circumstances. The effectiveness of a scarer depends on factors like context, individual sensitivities, and the presentation of the frightening element.

Scarer meaning with examples

• The amusement park's haunted house employed numerous costumed actors, professional scarers, to jump out and startle visitors. Their goal was to generate screams and provide thrilling entertainment. The scarers' effectiveness was measured by the volume of screams and the speed with which guests exited the attraction, making them popular during the Halloween season.
• As the storm intensified, the howling wind and flashes of lightning, becoming natural scarers, filled the small cottage with a primal fear. The family huddled together, listening for any increase in the storm’s fury, imagining the worst as nature showcased its unbridled power to the community.
• The scarecrow, though inanimate, served as a bird scarer in the field, protecting the crops from hungry animals. It's simplistic design, meant to resemble a human form, created an illusion meant to frighten, proving its merit. The scarer's purpose was purely functional, designed for security without malice.
• The reputation of the abandoned mansion made it a local scarer, causing children to avoid it. Tales of strange noises and apparitions served as warnings, fostering an aura of mystery and generating a deep-seated fear that kept anyone away. The scarer served as a cautionary reminder.
• The magician, using elaborate illusions, presented himself as a stage scarer, creating dramatic displays with sudden disappearances and startling reveals. His goal was to generate gasps and excitement from the audience. The scarer’s role was pure entertainment and a show of skill.