afraid

American  

[uh-freyd] / əˈfreɪd /

adjective

1. feeling fear; filled with apprehension.

   afraid to go.

   Synonyms:

   timorous, timid, apprehensive, fearful, scared

   Antonyms:

   fearless, confident, bold

2. feeling regret, unhappiness, or the like.

   I'm afraid we can't go on Monday.

3. feeling reluctance, unwillingness, distaste, or the like.

   He seemed afraid to show his own children a little kindness.

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afraid British  

/ əˈfreɪd /

adjective

1. (often foll by of) feeling fear or apprehension; frightened

   he was afraid of cats

2. reluctant (to do something), as through fear or timidity

   he was afraid to let himself go

3. regretful

   I'm afraid that I shall have to tell you to go

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Related Words

Afraid, alarmed, frightened, terrified all indicate a state of fear. Afraid implies inner apprehensive disquiet: afraid of the dark. Alarmed implies that the feelings are aroused through realization of some imminent or unexpected danger to oneself or others: alarmed by (or about ) someone's illness. Frightened means shocked with sudden, but usually short-lived, fear, especially that arising from apprehension of physical harm: frightened by an accident. Terrified suggests the emotional reaction when one is struck with a violent, overwhelming fear: terrified by an earthquake.

Other Word Forms

• half-afraid adjective
• unafraid adjective

Etymology

Origin of afraid

Variant spelling of affrayed, past participle of affray to disturb, frighten

Explanation

To be afraid is to be scared. People are afraid of snakes, bugs, heights, bears, death, and public speaking, among other things. Being afraid means you have a fear of something — and people are afraid of all sorts of things, from guns to ghosts to being in arguments. People also say, "I'm afraid I have some bad news," which doesn't mean they're afraid of the news, but sorry that they have to share it. It's a similar situation for the saying "I'm afraid so," which is a nice way of saying "I'm sorry, but the answer is yes."

Example Sentences

"I am afraid of taking long-distance passengers, as it is uncertain whether I will be able to refuel and return safely."

From Barron's • Apr. 21, 2026

Instead, the danger seems to be in hospitals, where people are suffering or dying, surrounded by doctors who could help them but are afraid that doing so will risk their freedom or vocation.

From Slate • Apr. 20, 2026

Now, she tells BBC Panorama, she is afraid it marks her out as a target.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

“We explain to them that everyone has rights. Don’t be afraid to speak up. If something happens to you, let us know,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

My neck is itchy from the haircut, and I kind of want to put my hair in a ponytail, but I’m afraid I’ll hurt Avery’s feelings if I do.

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison

Related Words

• anxious
• apprehensive
• frightened
• nervous
• scared
• shocked
• suspicious
• timid