scary

adjective

ˈsker-ē How to pronounce scary (audio)
scarier; scariest
Synonyms of scarynext
1
: causing fright : alarming
a scary story
2
: easily scared : timid
3
: feeling alarm or fright : frightened
scarily
ˈsker-ə-lē How to pronounce scary (audio)
adverb

Synonyms of scary

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Oddly enough, this is actually one of the least scary activities in Shiniuzhai's mountainous area. — New Atlas, 1 Sep. 2026 The film could have only benefited from narrowing its scope away from all the government muck, an attempt to flesh out a mythology for its villains that are scarier simply as faceless, mysterious weapons of mass destruction. — Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 31 Aug. 2026 Playing that felt more emotional and raw and, ultimately, scarier than doing the threesome scene with the possum. — Angelina Mazza, Los Angeles Times, 31 Aug. 2026 These changes can sound scary, but preparation and knowledge are key to keeping your hair healthy. — Sarah Madaus, InStyle, 30 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for scary

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of scary was in 1582

Rhymes for scary

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Browse Nearby Words

scarved
scary
scat
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Cite this Entry

“Scary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scary. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

scary

adjective
ˈske(ə)r-ē How to pronounce scary (audio)
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 How to pronounce scary (audio)
adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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