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REFERENCE

fearful

adj. · adv.
US //ˈfɪɹfəɫ// UK //fˈiəfəl// fear·ful
  1. 1 feeling afraid (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    feeling afraid that something bad might happen.

    feeling or showing fear; apprehensive that a particular outcome may occur.

    Example

    Many people are fearful of losing their jobs during the economic crisis.

    Example

    The residents remained fearful of further flooding, keeping their most valuable possessions on the upper floors of their homes.

    Usage

    Often followed by the preposition 'of' or a 'that' clause.
  2. 2 causing fear (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    something that is very scary or frightening.

    causing or capable of causing fear; inspiring awe or dread.

    Example

    The tiger let out a fearful roar that echoed through the trees.

    Example

    The storm unleashed a fearful power, uprooting ancient oaks and tossing small boats onto the shore like toys.
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  1. 3 very bad (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    extremely bad or unpleasant.

    shockingly bad or intense; used to emphasize a negative quality.

    Example

    The accident was a fearful sight that I will never forget.

    Example

    The refugees had endured fearful hardships during their long journey across the border.

    Teacher's tip

    In modern English, this sense is often replaced by 'terrible' or 'horrific' in casual speech.
  2. 4 extremely (adv.)
    C2 Proficiency Dialect

    used to mean 'very' or 'extremely' in some local styles of speaking.

    used as an intensifier meaning 'extremely' or 'very'.

    Example

    It is fearful cold outside this morning, so wear a heavy coat.

    Example

    He was a fearful long time in returning from the village, causing his family much worry.

    Usage

    Typically used as an intensifier before an adjective.
Origin

From Middle English ferful, fervol, equivalent to fear + -ful.

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