Threat — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun verb /ˈthret/

Meaning & Definition of Threat

Threat (noun)

  1. an expression of intention to inflict evil, injury, or damage
  2. one that threatens
  3. an indication of something impending

Threat (verb)

  1. threaten

Threat (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. something that may cause injury or harm

    "terrorism is a threat to the safety of people everywhere"

    related: snare, trap, booby trap

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Threat

The most common words with a similar meaning to Threat:

Near Antonyms of Threat

Word Forms of Threat

Inflections: threated, threating, threats

Origin & Etymology of Threat

Middle English thret coercion, threat, from Old English thrēat coercion; akin to Middle High German drōz annoyance, Latin trudere to push, thrust

First known use: before 12th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Threat

Words & Phrases Containing Threat

Frequently Asked Questions about Threat

What does "Threat" mean?

"Threat" means an expression of intention to inflict evil, injury, or damage. As an a noun and a verb, it is defined as: an expression of intention to inflict evil, injury, or damage.

What is another word for "Threat"?

Other words for "Threat" include danger, hazard, imminence, menace, peril, pitfall, risk and trouble. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Threat" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Threat"?

There are 11 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Threat". Common alternatives include danger, hazard, imminence, menace, peril, pitfall, risk and trouble.

How do you use "Threat" in a sentence?

Examples of "Threat" in a sentence: "terrorism is a threat to the safety of people everywhere".

Is "Threat" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Threat" can be used as a noun and a verb, depending on the context.

Is "Threat" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a B2-level word, "Threat" is typical of Cambridge B2 First (FCE), IELTS band 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 72–94, PTE Academic 59–75, TOEIC Listening & Reading 785+.

How do you pronounce "Threat"?

"Threat" is pronounced /ˈthret/.

What is the origin of the word "Threat"?

"Threat" comes from Middle English thret coercion, threat, from Old English thrēat coercion; akin to Middle High German drōz annoyance, Latin trudere to push, thrust. First known use: before 12th century.