English · Common Verbs
threaten
/ˈθretn/
[/ˈθretn/]
warn of harm
Intermediateverb
Definition
To say that you will harm someone, or to be likely to cause damage.
Example
Dark storm clouds began to threaten the picnic that the family had planned.
Dark storm clouds began to threaten the picnic that the family had planned.
Etymology
From Old English 'þrēatnian', from 'þrēat' (oppression, threat).
How & Where It’s Used
Used for verbal threats and for impending dangers.