Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Horrid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

😱
Add to dictionary

horrid

[ˈhɔːrɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

descriptive quality

Horrid describes something that is extremely unpleasant, shocking, or terrible. It can refer to experiences, feelings, or appearances that evoke a strong negative reaction.

Synonyms

awful, dreadful, frightful, terrible.

Examples of usage

  • The horrid smell made them cover their noses.
  • She described the movie as horrid and boring.
  • His horrid behavior upset everyone at the party.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The term is often found in classic horror literature, used to describe terrifying creatures or gruesome events, helping build a chilling atmosphere.
  • In the works of Charles Dickens, characters might describe something as horrid to express disgust or revulsion, enhancing the emotional depth of his narratives.

Psychology

  • People often respond to horrid experiences with heightened anxiety, showing how our emotions link to the perception of negativity.
  • The term can also describe feelings of dread or fear often experienced in situations that are overwhelmingly stressful or disturbing.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, a horrid villain might provoke strong reactions from the audience, illustrating the power of storytelling in evoking fear.
  • Horrid events in pop culture, like in horror films or novels, tap into our primal fears, making them memorable and impactful.

Art

  • In visual art, horrid imagery can be used to challenge viewers, sparking discussions about beauty, discomfort, and the human condition.
  • Horrid themes in art can serve as a critique of societal issues, using shock value to provoke thought and reflection.

Origin of 'horrid'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has its roots in Middle English, coming from the Old French 'horride,' which means dreadful.
  • It can be traced back even further to the Latin word 'horridus,' meaning bristling or rough, often used to describe things that evoke fear.

The word 'horrid' comes from the Latin word 'horridus' which means rough, bristly, or dreadful. It entered the English language in the late 1500s, primarily used in literature to describe something repulsive or fearsome. Over time, 'horrid' became associated with things that evoke a strong feeling of disgust or terror, commonly used in both spoken and written contexts. The suffix '-id' implies a state or condition, hence the term conveys a quality of being extremely unpleasant. It was popularized in children's literature and horror genres to describe frightening or unsettling scenarios.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,894, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.