terrible

The definition of terrible is someone or something extreme, very bad or something that causes fear.

(adjective)

An example of terrible is a terrible storm such as a category 5 hurricane.
An example of terrible is a terrible mistake such as dumping an entire casserole on the floor before a dinner party.
An example of terrible is a terrible event such as someone arriving back to their campsite and seeing a bear eating their food.

See terrible in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

causing terror; fearful; frightful; dreadful
extreme; intense; severe
Informal very bad, unpleasant; disagreeable, etc.: a general term of disapproval

Origin: OFr < L terribilis < terrere, to frighten: see terror

Related Forms:

See terrible in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective

Causing great fear or alarm; dreadful: a terrible bolt of lightning; a terrible curse.
Extremely formidable: terrible responsibilities.
Extreme in extent or degree; intense: “the life for which he had paid so terrible a price” (Leslie Fiedler).
a. Unpleasant; disagreeable: had a terrible time at the party; terrible food.
b. Very bad: a terrible actor.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Old French

Origin: , from Latin terribilis

Origin: , from terrēre, to frighten

Related Forms: