English · Emotions & Feelings
afraid
/əˈfreɪd/
[/əˈfreɪd/]
feeling fear
Beginneradjective
Definition
Feeling fear or worry that something bad may happen.
Example
The little boy was afraid of the dark, so his mother left a small light on.
The little boy was afraid of the dark, so his mother left a small light on.
Etymology
From Middle English 'affraied', the past participle of 'affray' (to frighten), from Old French 'effreer'.
How & Where It’s Used
A very common emotion word; also used politely ('I'm afraid not').