scary

adjective

ˈsker-ē 

scarier; scariest

1

: causing fright : alarming

a scary story

2

: easily scared : timid

3

: feeling alarm or fright : frightened

scarily

ˈsker-ə-lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• alarming
• dire
• direful
• dread
• dreadful
• fearful
• fearsome
• forbidding
• formidable
• frightening
• frightful
• ghastly
• hair-raising
• horrendous
• horrible
• horrifying
• intimidating
• redoubtable
• shocking
• spine-chilling
• terrible
• terrifying

Examples of scary in a Sentence

a scary movie that gave the child nightmares for weeks afterwards

a scary horse who spooked and kicked at its own shadow

Recent Examples on the Web

History says such a two-year performance in itself is neither a scary portent nor a ticket to further riches. —Michael Santoli, CNBC, 14 Dec. 2024

Doing things alone can be scary or intimidating to many, but a solo date to Broadway or a nearby theatre can be comforting and even empowering (your trusty newsletter writer speaks from experience). —Maggie McGrath, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024

On Ghost Adventures, Bagans, Aaron Goodwin, Billy Tolley and Jay Wasley investigate the scariest and most notorious, haunted places in the world. —Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 13 Dec. 2024

But now, starting Severino at home in Sacramento will be scary, given the dimensions and likely hitter-friendly environment there. —Michael Waterloo, The Athletic, 13 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

scary

adjective

ˈske(ə)r-ē 

ˈska(ə)r-

scarier; scariest

1

: causing fright : alarming

a scary movie

2

: easily scared : timid

3

: feeling alarm or fright : scared, frightened

scary feeling

scarily

-ə-lē 

adverb