fear meaning and definition

FEAR noun

Definition of fear (noun)

1. an emotion experienced in anticipation of some specific pain or danger (usually accompanied by a desire to flee or fight)
   • synonyms: fearfulness, fright
   • antonym: bravery
2. an anxious feeling
   • "care had aged him"; "they hushed it up out of fear of public reaction"
   • synonyms: care, concern
3. a feeling of profound respect for someone or something
   • "the fear of God"; "the Chinese reverence for the dead"; "the French treat food with gentle reverence"; "his respect for the law bordered on veneration"
   • synonyms: awe, reverence, veneration

FEAR verb

Definition of fear (verb)

1. be afraid or feel anxious or apprehensive about a possible or probable situation or event
   • "I fear she might get aggressive"
2. be afraid or scared of; be frightened of
   • "I fear the winters in Moscow"; "We should not fear the Communists!"
   • synonyms: dread
3. be sorry; used to introduce an unpleasant statement
   • "I fear I won't make it to your wedding party"
4. be uneasy or apprehensive about
   • "I fear the results of the final exams"
5. regard with feelings of respect and reverence; consider hallowed or exalted or be in awe of
   • "Fear God as your father"; "We venerate genius"
   • synonyms: revere, reverence, venerate