Creepy: meaning, definitions and examples
👻
creepy
[ˈkriːpi ]
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.
|
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
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.
|
| disturbing |
Used when something causes feelings of anxiety, worry, or unpleasant emotions due to its shocking or frightening nature.
|
| unsettling |
Useful when something causes feelings of discomfort or worry because it disrupts your sense of normalcy or peace.
|
| haunting |
Best for describing something that has a lingering, memorable impression, often in a sad or eerie way.
|
Examples of usage
- The creepy clown gave the children nightmares.
- The old doll had a creepy smile.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "creepy" in other languages:
🇵🇹 assustador
🇮🇳 डरावना
🇩🇪 gruselig
🇮🇩 menyeramkan
🇺🇦 моторошний
🇵🇱 przerażający
🇯🇵 不気味な (bukimi na)
🇫🇷 effrayant
🇪🇸 espeluznante
🇹🇷 ürkütücü
🇰🇷 소름 끼치는 (soreum kkichineun)
🇸🇦 مخيف
🇨🇿 děsivý
🇸🇰 strašidelný
🇨🇳 令人毛骨悚然的 (lìng rén máogǔ sǒngrán de)
🇸🇮 grozljiv
🇮🇸 óhugnanlegur
🇰🇿 қорқынышты
🇬🇪 შემაძრწუნებელი
🇦🇿 dəhşətli
🇲🇽 espeluznante