Top 42 Slang For Fearful – Meaning & Usage

Feeling a bit jittery? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our list of the top slang for the fearful and discover the words that perfectly capture that spine-tingling sensation. Whether you’re a scaredy-cat or just looking to expand your vocabulary, this list is sure to give you the chills in the best way possible. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the language of fear like never before!

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1. Spooked

When someone is “spooked,” they are feeling uneasy or frightened. It can also refer to being startled by something unexpected.

For example, “I was walking alone in the dark and got spooked by a noise.”
A person might say, “Don’t sneak up on me like that, you really spooked me!”
In a horror movie, a character might say, “I’m getting spooked by all these strange sounds in the house.”

2. Terrified

To be “terrified” means to be extremely frightened or scared. It implies a high level of fear and anxiety.

For instance, “I’m terrified of heights, so I can’t go on that roller coaster.”
A person might say, “I was terrified when I saw a spider crawling on my arm.”
In a haunted house, someone might scream, “I’m terrified! Get me out of here!”

3. Petrified

When someone is “petrified,” they are so scared that they are unable to move or react. It represents a state of extreme fear.

For example, “I was petrified when I saw a snake slithering towards me.”
A person might say, “I’m petrified of public speaking; I freeze up and can’t say a word.”
In a suspenseful movie scene, a character might be petrified as they hide from the killer.

4. Shook

To be “shook” means to feel unsettled or disturbed by something. It can refer to a sense of unease or being emotionally affected by a situation.

For instance, “I’m still shook after watching that horror movie.”
A person might say, “I was shook when I found out my favorite band was breaking up.”
After a near-miss car accident, someone might exclaim, “I’m so shook right now!”

5. Panicky

When someone is “panicky,” they are experiencing a high level of panic or anxiety. It implies a sense of urgency and a loss of control.

For example, “I felt panicky when I realized I was lost in a foreign city.”
A person might say, “I get panicky during crowded events; the noise and crowds overwhelm me.”
In a stressful situation, someone might shout, “Don’t panic! Stay calm and think through the problem.”

6. Jittery

This term is used to describe someone who is feeling restless or uneasy, often due to fear or anxiety.

For example, “I always get jittery before a big presentation.”
A person might say, “I’m feeling jittery about meeting my partner’s parents for the first time.”
Another might describe their nerves by saying, “I can’t stop feeling jittery about the upcoming exam.”

7. Timid

When someone is timid, they are hesitant or cautious, often due to fear or lack of self-assurance.

For instance, “She’s too timid to speak up in large groups.”
A person might say, “I’ve always been timid when it comes to trying new things.”
Another might describe themselves as timid by saying, “I tend to be more timid in unfamiliar situations.”

8. Trembling

Trembling refers to the involuntary shaking or quivering of the body, often caused by fear, nervousness, or cold.

For example, “Her hands were trembling with fear.”
A person might say, “I couldn’t control my trembling during the roller coaster ride.”
Another might describe their fear by saying, “I felt a trembling sensation throughout my body when I saw the spider.”

9. Quaking

Quaking is a stronger and more intense form of trembling, often used to describe extreme fear or intense emotions.

For instance, “The ground was quaking beneath their feet during the earthquake.”
A person might say, “I was quaking with fear when I heard someone breaking into my house.”
Another might describe their overwhelming emotions by saying, “I felt my heart quaking with excitement as I stood on the edge of the cliff.”

10. Creeped out

When someone is creeped out, they are experiencing a sense of unease, discomfort, or fear, often due to something strange or unsettling.

For example, “The abandoned house gave me a creeped out feeling.”
A person might say, “I always get creeped out when I walk alone at night.”
Another might describe their discomfort by saying, “The eerie music in the horror movie really creeped me out.”

11. Freaked out

This phrase is used to describe someone who is experiencing intense fear or anxiety.

For example, “I was so freaked out when I saw a spider crawling on my arm.”
In a horror movie, a character might say, “I was freaked out by all the strange noises in the old house.”
A person describing a scary experience might say, “I was completely freaked out when I got lost in the woods at night.”

12. Anxious

Anxious is a term used to describe a state of uneasiness or nervousness, often associated with fear or worry.

For instance, “I’m feeling anxious about my upcoming job interview.”
A person might say, “I always get anxious before flying on an airplane.”
Someone discussing a stressful situation might say, “I’m anxious about the results of my medical test.”

13. Nervous

Nervous describes a state of unease or apprehension, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating or trembling.

For example, “I always feel nervous before giving a presentation.”
A person might say, “I get nervous when I have to meet new people.”
Someone discussing a stressful event might say, “I was so nervous before the big game.”

14. Scared stiff

Scared stiff is an expression used to describe someone who is so scared that they are unable to move or react.

For instance, “I was scared stiff when I saw a snake in my backyard.”
In a horror movie, a character might say, “The creepy music and dark hallway had me scared stiff.”
A person describing a terrifying experience might say, “I was scared stiff when I heard someone breaking into my house.”

15. Frightened

Frightened is a term used to describe a state of fear or being scared.

For example, “I was frightened by the loud thunder during the storm.”
A person might say, “I get frightened when I watch horror movies.”
Someone discussing a scary encounter might say, “I was really frightened when I saw a ghost in the haunted house.”

16. Afraid

Feeling fear or apprehension about something. “Afraid” is a common term used to describe a state of fear.

For example, “I’m afraid of spiders.”
A person might say, “I’m afraid of heights, so I avoid tall buildings.”
Another might admit, “I’m afraid of public speaking, but I’m working on overcoming my fear.”

17. Hesitant

Showing reluctance or indecision. “Hesitant” is used to describe someone who is unsure or hesitant to take action.

For instance, “She was hesitant to try the new food.”
In a discussion about making a decision, someone might say, “I’m hesitant to commit without more information.”
A person might admit, “I’m hesitant to ask for help because I don’t want to bother anyone.”

18. Timorous

Showing a lack of confidence or courage. “Timorous” is a more formal word used to describe someone who is easily frightened or lacks bravery.

For example, “The timorous child hid behind their parent.”
In a discussion about facing fears, someone might say, “I used to be quite timorous, but I’ve learned to be more courageous.”
A person might describe themselves as “timorous in social situations.”

19. Chicken-hearted

Describing someone who lacks courage or is easily frightened. “Chicken-hearted” is a more informal and colorful way of expressing fear.

For instance, “He’s too chicken-hearted to confront the bully.”
In a discussion about taking risks, someone might say, “I don’t want to be chicken-hearted and miss out on opportunities.”
A person might jokingly say, “I’m chicken-hearted when it comes to horror movies.”

20. Yellow-bellied

Referring to someone who is easily frightened or lacks courage. “Yellow-bellied” is a colorful slang term used to describe fear or cowardice.

For example, “He’s a yellow-bellied coward who always runs away from a fight.”
In a discussion about bravery, someone might say, “I don’t want to be known as a yellow-bellied person.”
A person might jokingly say, “I’m a yellow-bellied scaredy-cat when it comes to spiders.”

21. Wimpy

This term is used to describe someone who is easily frightened or lacks courage. It can also refer to something that is feeble or ineffective.

For example, “Don’t be so wimpy, it’s just a spider.”
In a discussion about bravery, someone might say, “I would never go skydiving, I’m too wimpy for that.”
A person might describe a disappointing movie as, “The villain was so wimpy, it was hard to take him seriously.”

22. Squeamish

This word is used to describe someone who is easily affected by feelings of disgust or revulsion, especially in response to something gross or unpleasant.

For instance, “I can’t watch horror movies, I’m too squeamish.”
In a conversation about medical procedures, someone might say, “I can’t even look at blood, I’m too squeamish.”
A person might admit, “I can’t handle the sight of bugs, I’m really squeamish.”

23. Cowering

This term describes the act of crouching or shrinking back in fear or submission. It implies a lack of bravery or confidence.

For example, “The dog was cowering in the corner, afraid of the thunder.”
In a discussion about bullying, someone might say, “The victim was cowering in fear, afraid to stand up for themselves.”
A person might describe a character in a horror movie as, “Cowering in terror as the monster approached.”

24. Tremulous

This word describes a state of trembling or quivering, often due to fear or nervousness. It implies a lack of stability or composure.

For instance, “Her voice was tremulous as she spoke about her traumatic experience.”
In a conversation about stage fright, someone might say, “I always get tremulous before a performance.”
A person might describe their hands as, “Tremulous with fear as they faced their phobia.”

25. Skittish

This term is used to describe someone or something that is easily startled or nervous. It implies a lack of calmness or stability.

For example, “The horse was skittish and would jump at the slightest noise.”
In a discussion about meeting new people, someone might say, “I’m always skittish in social situations.”
A person might describe themselves as, “Skittish around large crowds, preferring quieter environments.”

26. Wary

This term describes a feeling of caution or wariness, often due to a perceived threat or danger. It can also refer to being on guard or suspicious of someone or something.

For example, “I’m feeling wary about going out alone at night in this neighborhood.”
A person might say, “I’m always wary of online scams and phishing attempts.”
In a discussion about personal safety, someone might advise, “Be wary of strangers offering you a ride.”

27. Shivery

This word is used to describe a feeling of fear or unease, often accompanied by shivering or chills. It can also refer to something that is eerie or unsettling.

For instance, “Walking through the abandoned house gave me a shivery feeling.”
A person might say, “I get shivery every time I watch a horror movie.”
In a conversation about ghost stories, someone might share, “I had a shivery encounter with a ghost last night.”

28. Goosebumps

This term refers to the physiological response of the body when the muscles surrounding hair follicles contract, causing the hair to stand on end. It is commonly associated with fear, excitement, or cold temperature.

For example, “The scary movie gave me goosebumps.”
A person might say, “I always get goosebumps when I’m nervous.”
In a discussion about horror novels, someone might comment, “The author’s vivid descriptions gave me goosebumps.”

29. Paranoid

This word describes a state of extreme and irrational fear or suspicion, often characterized by constant worry about potential harm or threats. It can also refer to someone who is excessively mistrustful or fearful.

For instance, “He’s always paranoid that someone is watching him.”
A person might say, “I sometimes get paranoid when I’m alone in a dark room.”
In a conversation about conspiracy theories, someone might comment, “Some people are just naturally paranoid about government surveillance.”

30. Shuddering

This term describes a physical reaction to fear or extreme discomfort, characterized by involuntary shaking or trembling. It can also refer to a feeling of intense fear or unease.

For example, “The scary movie had me shuddering in my seat.”
A person might say, “I can’t help but shudder when I think about spiders.”
In a discussion about phobias, someone might share, “I have a shuddering fear of heights.”

31. Apprehensive

– For example, “I’m feeling apprehensive about the job interview tomorrow.”

A person might say, “She’s always apprehensive before traveling on airplanes.”
In a discussion about starting a new business, someone might admit, “I’m apprehensive about taking the risk.”

32. Fainthearted

– For instance, “He’s too fainthearted to go on roller coasters.”

A person might say, “I’m not fainthearted, but I do get nervous about public speaking.”
In a discussion about horror movies, someone might admit, “I’m fainthearted, so I avoid watching scary films.”

33. Nervous wreck

– For example, “She’s a nervous wreck before every big exam.”

A person might say, “I’m a nervous wreck when it comes to flying on airplanes.”
In a discussion about job interviews, someone might admit, “I become a nervous wreck during interviews.”

34. Scaredy-cat

– For instance, “Don’t be such a scaredy-cat, it’s just a harmless spider.”

A person might say, “I’m a scaredy-cat when it comes to watching horror movies.”
In a discussion about trying new activities, someone might admit, “I’m a bit of a scaredy-cat when it comes to extreme sports.”

35. Chicken

– For example, “He’s too chicken to try bungee jumping.”

A person might say, “Don’t be such a chicken, it’s just a little thunder.”
In a discussion about facing fears, someone might admit, “I used to be a chicken when it came to public speaking.”

36. Wimp

A derogatory term used to describe someone who is weak or lacking courage. “Wimp” implies that the person is easily intimidated or afraid to take risks.

For example, a bully might taunt, “Don’t be such a wimp, stand up for yourself!”
In a conversation about facing fears, someone might admit, “I used to be a wimp, but now I’m learning to be brave.”
A friend might playfully tease, “You’re too much of a wimp to try that extreme sport!”

37. Quivering

Describes someone or something that is trembling or shaking due to fear or anxiety. “Quivering” is often used to emphasize the physical manifestation of fear.

For instance, a witness might describe, “I saw him quivering with fear when the gun was pointed at him.”
In a horror movie review, a critic might write, “The suspenseful scenes had me quivering in my seat.”
A person might confess, “I can’t help but feel quivering with fear whenever I have to speak in public.”

38. Shaky

Refers to someone or something that is not firm or stable, often due to fear or nervousness. “Shaky” can describe both physical and emotional instability.

For example, a person might say, “I felt so shaky before my job interview.”
In a discussion about stage fright, someone might share, “My hands always get shaky when I have to perform in front of an audience.”
A friend might ask, “Are you feeling shaky because of the scary movie we watched?”

39. Gutless

A derogatory term used to describe someone who lacks courage or determination. “Gutless” implies that the person is weak-willed or easily intimidated.

For instance, a disappointed coach might criticize, “That was a gutless performance from our team.”
In a political debate, someone might accuse, “The politician’s decision was gutless and lacked conviction.”
A friend might jokingly say, “You’re too gutless to try that adventurous activity!”

40. Yellow

A slang term used to describe someone who is easily frightened or lacks courage. “Yellow” suggests that the person is timid or afraid to take risks.

For example, a character in a movie might say, “He’s yellow, always backing down from a challenge.”
In a conversation about facing fears, someone might say, “I used to be yellow, but now I’m learning to be brave.”
A friend might playfully tease, “Don’t be so yellow, it’s just a harmless spider!”

41. Lily-livered

This term is used to describe someone who is easily frightened or lacks bravery. It originates from the belief that the liver was the seat of courage in ancient times.

For example, “Don’t be so lily-livered, stand up for yourself!”
In a scary situation, someone might say, “I’m feeling a bit lily-livered right now.”
A person mocking someone’s fear might say, “Look at you, acting all lily-livered.”

42. Wuss

This slang term is used to describe someone who is easily scared or lacks courage. It is often used in a derogatory manner.

For instance, “Stop being such a wuss and face your fears!”
If someone refuses to participate in a risky activity, they might be called a wuss.
A person teasing a friend might say, “You’re such a wuss, afraid of a little spider.”