Menacing: meaning, definitions and examples

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menacing

 

[ ˈmenɪsɪŋ ]

Adjective / Verb
Context #1 | Adjective

in a threatening manner

Menacing is used to describe something that is likely to cause harm or danger. It can also refer to something that is intended to intimidate or frighten others. The word menacing implies a sense of danger or threat.

Synonyms

intimidating, ominous, threatening

Examples of usage

  • His menacing glare made everyone in the room uncomfortable.
  • The dark clouds overhead had a menacing appearance, signaling an incoming storm.
Context #2 | Verb

to act in a threatening way

When someone is menacing, they are behaving in a manner that suggests they may cause harm or danger. This can involve making threats, using aggressive body language, or engaging in other behaviors that instill fear in others.

Examples of usage

  • The stranger was menacing the pedestrians on the street corner.
  • The dog growled and bared its teeth, menacing anyone who approached.

Translations

Translations of the word "menacing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ameaçador

🇮🇳 धमकी देना

🇩🇪 bedrohlich

🇮🇩 mengancam

🇺🇦 загрозливий

🇵🇱 groźny

🇯🇵 脅迫的な (きょうはくてきな)

🇫🇷 menaçant

🇪🇸 amenazante

🇹🇷 tehditkar

🇰🇷 위협적인 (wiheopjeog-in)

🇸🇦 مهدد

🇨🇿 hrozivý

🇸🇰 hrozivý

🇨🇳 威胁的 (wēixié de)

🇸🇮 grozeč

🇮🇸 ógnandi

🇰🇿 қорқыту

🇬🇪 მუქარის

🇦🇿 təhdid edən

🇲🇽 amenazante

Etymology

The word 'menacing' originated from the Middle English word 'menacen', which means 'threaten'. It has been used in English language since the 14th century. The concept of something being menacing has always been associated with fear and danger, making it a powerful and evocative term.

See also: menacer, menacingly.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,052, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.