Perilous Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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perilous
[ˈper.əl.əs ]
Definition
in a dangerous situation
Full of danger or risk; exposed to imminent harm or threat
Synonyms
dangerous, hazardous, precarious, risky, unsafe.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| perilous |
Used to describe a situation that is full of danger and risk, often with a dramatic or literary tone.
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| dangerous |
Commonly used in everyday language to denote anything that can cause harm or injury.
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| risky |
Used to describe actions or business ventures that involve the possibility of loss or danger.
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| hazardous |
Often used in formal or technical contexts to describe conditions that have the potential to cause harm, especially referring to health and safety regulations.
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| precarious |
Refers to situations that are unstable or uncertain, often implying that something bad could easily happen.
|
| unsafe |
Directly refers to conditions or environments that are not safe, making it clear that there is an imminent danger or threat.
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Examples of usage
- He decided to take the perilous journey through the mountains.
- The expedition faced a perilous climb up the icy cliff.
- The sailors encountered perilous waters during the storm.
- She navigated the perilous terrain with caution.
- The castle was perched on a perilous cliff overlooking the sea.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In classic literature, perilous adventures often lead characters to discover their true selves, as seen in fabulous journeys of heroes.
- Shakespeare frequently used the term to underscore the risks faced by his characters, highlighting the tension in plays like 'Julius Caesar'.
- The word is integral in fantasy stories, often describing magical quests where the heroes encounter dangerous foes and obstacles.
Psychology
- Feeling in peril can trigger the body's fight or flight response, preparing it to deal with threats.
- Studies show that a sense of personal danger can amplify stress responses, affecting decision-making and perceptions of safety.
- People often remember perilous situations vividly due to emotional arousal, linking danger to strong memories.
Pop Culture
- In movies and books, perilous situations are often climactic moments that test characters' courage and resolve.
- Adventure games often include perilous scenarios that players must navigate, adding excitement and tension to the gameplay.
- Famous songs and lyrics touch on themes of perilous love affairs, emphasizing the emotional risks involved.
History
- Exploration during the Age of Discovery was often perilous, as sailors faced storms, unknown lands, and sea monsters in myths.
- Historical battles were perilous events where soldiers risked everything for victory, reflecting the gravity of warfare.
- Pioneers in the American West often encountered perilous conditions, confronting harsh terrain and hostile situations.
Origin of 'perilous'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English 'perilous', which means 'full of danger'.
- It traces back to the Old French word 'perilleux', derived from 'peril', which also signifies danger.
- It has roots in the Latin word 'periculum', meaning 'risk or danger', indicating a long history of associating this word with threats.
The word 'perilous' originated from the Latin word 'perīculōsus', derived from 'perīculum' meaning 'danger'. The term has been in use since the late 14th century, evolving to its current form in Middle English. Throughout history, 'perilous' has been associated with risky situations, threats, and precarious circumstances.
See also: perilously.