terror etymology

Etymology:

Terror derives from the Latin word "terror," meaning "extreme fear, dread." This term, in turn, is rooted in the Proto-Indo-European word "*terh₂-," which means "to tremble, shake."

Meaning:

Terror refers to an intense and overwhelming feeling of fear, anxiety, or dread that causes the body to tremble or shake. It can be caused by imminent danger, a perceived threat, or a profound emotional disturbance.

Origin:

The concept of terror has been present throughout human history, with its origins tracing back to primitive fears and defense mechanisms. In ancient mythology and literature, terror was often personified as a supernatural being or force that inspired dread and horror.

Use in History and Language:

  • In the Roman Empire, "terror" was used to describe the fear inspired by the emperor and his secret police, known as the Praetorian Guard.
  • During the French Revolution, the Reign of Terror was a period of intense violence and repression characterized by the widespread use of terror.
  • The term "terrorism" emerged in the 19th century to refer to the use of violence and fear to achieve political or ideological goals.
  • Today, terror continues to be used to describe extreme fear, violence, and psychological trauma, particularly in contexts such as terrorism, natural disasters, and personal experiences of fear.

terror relate terms

  • terrible

    Etymology The word terrible originates from the Latin terribilis meaning causing f

  • awful

    Etymology The word awful comes from the Old English word aweful which means inspiri

  • terrific

    Etymology Middle English from Anglo French terrifien from Latin terrificāre from te

  • terror

    Etymology Terror derives from the Latin word terror meaning extreme fear dread Th

  • terror

    Etymology Terror derives from the Latin word terror meaning extreme fear dread Th

  • panic

    Etymology The word panic originates from the Greek god Pan who was associated with na

  • affright

    Etymology Old French affraier Late Latin exfrigidare meaning to cool or frighten L

  • brat

    Etymology Middle Low German brat meaning roast meat Old High German braten meanin

  • affray

    Etymology From Middle English affray from Old French effrei or effray fright terror

  • phobia

    Etymology The word phobia originates from the Greek word phobos meaning fear or

  • rapscallion

    Etymology Rap Scallion Meaning A mischievous or rascally person Origin The word

  • individual

    Etymology from Latin individuum an individual thing or being from in not

  • scourge

    Etymology and Origin The word scourge comes from the Old French word escorgier mean