Horror Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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horror
[ˈhɒrər ]
Definitions
movies
A genre of fiction that is intended to scare, unsettle, or horrify the audience. Horror stories often involve supernatural elements, monsters, or psychological thrillers.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| horror |
When describing a deep feeling of shock and fear, often caused by something gruesome or extremely disturbing.
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| terror |
When describing an intense, overwhelming fear, often linked to violence or extreme danger.
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| fright |
When referring to a sudden feeling of fear, often caused by something unexpected or surprising.
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| dread |
When talking about a strong feeling of worry or fear about something that might happen in the future.
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Examples of usage
- The new horror movie is getting great reviews.
- She loves to watch horror films late at night.
- The book is a collection of classic horror stories.
- The haunted house attraction was full of horror-themed decorations.
- The horror genre has a dedicated fan base.
feeling
An intense feeling of fear, shock, or disgust.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| horror |
Used when something is extremely frightening or shocking, often related to danger or violence.
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| terror |
Used in situations involving extreme fear, often linked to threats or violence, and usually implying a prolonged state of fear rather than a momentary reaction.
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| shock |
Best used when describing a sudden and surprising event that causes strong emotional reactions, which can be either negative or, less frequently, mildly neutral.
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| disgust |
Applied when something is extremely unpleasant or offensive, often related to bad smells, tastes, or moral outrage. The context typically involves a strong aversion.
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Examples of usage
- She felt a wave of horror when she saw the crime scene.
- The horror on his face was evident as he realized what had happened.
- The idea of being alone in the dark filled her with horror.
- The horror of the situation was overwhelming.
- The horror of war is depicted in many novels.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Horror as a genre became prominent in Gothic literature, with classics like Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' and Bram Stoker's 'Dracula'.
- Modern horror often explores psychological distress, seen in works by Stephen King and H.P. Lovecraft.
- The genre has evolved into various sub-genres like supernatural, psychological, and slasher horror.
Film
- The first horror film is often considered to be 'Le Manoir du Diable' from 1896, featuring a devil and various apparitions.
- Iconic horror movies like 'Psycho', 'The Exorcist', and 'Halloween' have shaped the industry and influenced countless remakes.
- The horror genre in films often uses sound and editing techniques to build tension and surprise audiences.
Psychology
- Experiencing horror can trigger the body's fight-or-flight response, leading to increased heart rate and adrenaline.
- Many enjoy horror because it provides a safe way to confront fear, allowing for catharsis without real danger.
- Studies show that viewing horror films can foster bonding among viewers, as shared scares can create stronger social connections.
Pop Culture
- 'Horror' has transcended its origins, influencing music, fashion, and art movements like Goth and Punk.
- High-profile events like Halloween have integrated horror themes into mainstream culture, from costumes to decorations.
- Horror-themed video games have become incredibly popular, with franchises like 'Resident Evil' and 'Silent Hill' captivating audiences.
Origin of 'horror'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'horror' comes from the Latin word 'horrere', which means 'to shudder' or 'to bristle'.
- In Middle English, the word 'horry' described things that caused fear or dread.
- The term began to be widely used to describe scary stories and films in the 19th century.
The word 'horror' originated from the Latin word 'horror' which means a bristling, roughness, or hair standing on end. It first appeared in the English language in the late 14th century. The genre of horror fiction has its roots in Gothic literature and has evolved over the centuries to encompass a wide range of themes and styles, from supernatural horror to psychological horror. Horror as a genre continues to captivate audiences with its ability to evoke fear and suspense.