Creepy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ป
creepy
[หkriหpi ]
Definitions
feeling
causing an unpleasant feeling of fear or unease; strange or eerie
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| creepy |
Used when something causes an uncomfortable feeling of fear or unease. Often associated with things that seem strange or unnatural.
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| scary |
Used to describe something that causes fear or alarm. Can be used in a wide range of situations, from mild discomfort to intense fear.
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| spooky |
Used when something is mysteriously scary or strange, often related to ghosts or supernatural events. Generally used in a lighter context, sometimes even humorously.
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| eerie |
Used to describe something that is strange and frightening, often because it is very quiet or odd. Typically used in a more subtle, mysterious sense.
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Examples of usage
- The abandoned house had a creepy atmosphere.
- She felt a creepy sensation down her spine.
appearance
having a frightening or unnerving appearance
Synonyms
disturbing, haunting, unsettling.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| creepy |
When describing something that makes you feel nervous or scared in an uncomfortable way, often due to its strange or eerie nature.
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| disturbing |
Used when something causes feelings of anxiety, worry, or unpleasant emotions due to its shocking or frightening nature.
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| unsettling |
Useful when something causes feelings of discomfort or worry because it disrupts your sense of normalcy or peace.
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| haunting |
Best for describing something that has a lingering, memorable impression, often in a sad or eerie way.
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Examples of usage
- The creepy clown gave the children nightmares.
- The old doll had a creepy smile.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Creepy things often evoke a sense of fear because they challenge our understanding of safety and predictability.
- Studies show that people feeling creeped out may experience an adrenaline rush, which can heighten awareness in social situations.
- The 'creepiness' factor is often linked to social cues, where someone behaving in an unusual or evasive manner can trigger discomfort.
Pop Culture
- The term is commonly used in horror films to describe eerie settings, characters, or atmospheres that elicit discomfort.
- Creepy dolls and clowns feature prominently in movies and literature, playing on common fears and anxieties.
- Internet memes and urban legends often amplify the 'creepy' theme, influencing modern storytelling and humor.
Literature
- Creepy elements in literature can create tension and suspense, drawing readers into a world of fear and intrigue.
- Authors like H.P. Lovecraft have famously explored themes of cosmic horror, something inherently creepy as it defies human understanding.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have unique interpretations of 'creepy,' with figures like the 'Grim Reaper' being seen as both fearsome and protective.
- In some cultures, certain objects (like mirrors at night) are deemed creepy due to ancestral beliefs about spirits.
Origin of 'creepy'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'creepy' comes from the verb 'creep,' which means to move quietly and slowly, often causing unease.
- It dates back to the early 19th century, where it started being used to describe feelings of uneasiness or fear.
The word 'creepy' originated in the 17th century, derived from the Old English word 'creopan' meaning 'to creep'. Over time, it evolved to describe something that elicits a feeling of fear or unease. The use of 'creepy' to describe eerie or unsettling things became more common in the 19th century, and it continues to be a popular term in modern English.