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Fearing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fearing

[หˆfษชษ™rษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

feeling afraid

Fearing refers to the state of being afraid or apprehensive about something. It encompasses a range of emotional responses when faced with perceived threats or danger, whether real or imagined. This feeling can trigger various physiological reactions, such as increased heart rate or sweating. People often fear the unknown, loss, failure, or harm to themselves or others. Fearing can be a protective response, preparing individuals to take action or avoid danger.

Synonyms

afraid, apprehensive, dreadful, scared, worried.

Examples of usage

  • He was fearing the worst after hearing the news.
  • She couldn't help fearing for her child's safety.
  • They were fearing the consequences of their actions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Fear is a natural emotion that helps people respond to danger and protect themselves.
  • There are different types of fears, including general fear, anxiety disorders, and phobias, which are intense fears of specific things.
  • The brain's amygdala is the part responsible for processing fear and triggering the body's fight-or-flight response.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters often face their fears as part of their journeys, symbolizing personal growth and courage.
  • Edgar Allan Poe frequently explored themes of fear and anxiety in his stories, delving into the darker aspects of the human psyche.
  • Shakespeare used fear to create tension in plays, illustrating how it can drive people to irrational behavior.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Many cultures have different stories and legends about fear, often using them as cautionary tales to teach lessons.
  • In some traditions, facing your fears can be seen as a rite of passage, proving your bravery and strength.
  • Artistic expressions, such as horror films or psychological thrillers, explore the concept of fear, allowing audiences to experience it in a controlled way.

Science

  • Fear triggers the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare the body for immediate action.
  • Research has shown that fear can impair judgment and decision-making, leading to increased anxiety in uncertain situations.
  • Some studies suggest exposure to fear (like watching a scary movie) can actually help people confront and manage their own fears better.

History

  • Throughout history, fear has influenced major events, such as wars and revolutions, when people felt threatened or oppressed.
  • In ancient times, cultures often worshipped deities that personified fear to explain the unknown elements in life.
  • The Cold War era exemplified how fear of nuclear conflict shaped international relationships and political strategies.

Origin of 'fearing'

The word 'fearing' is derived from the Old English 'fวฃran', which means to frighten or to be afraid. It has Germanic roots, related to the Dutch word 'vreezen' and the German 'furchten', both of which convey similar meanings related to fear. Over centuries, the verb has evolved but has retained its core essence of experiencing fear or anxiety. The process of fearing is not just a primal emotion but also a significant psychological state, influencing behavior, decision-making, and social interactions. 'Fearing' lives on in various forms throughout literature and everyday conversation, illustrating the human experience of confronting uncertainty and perceived threats.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,557, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.