Pronunciation: [pˈɛtɹɪfˌa͡ɪɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "petrifying" is spelled with three syllables: /ˈpe.trɪ.faɪ.ɪŋ/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "e" sound, followed by a stressed "t" sound. The second syllable has a short "i" sound, and the third syllable ends with a long "i" sound before the suffix "-ing". This word means to cause extreme fear or terror, and its spelling can be tricky due to the two "i" sounds in close proximity.
Petrifying is an adjective that refers to something that has the ability to fill a person with intense fear or terror. The term is derived from the verb "petrify," which means to turn into stone, and metaphorically implies being immobilized or frozen with fear.
Describing a situation, entity, or event as petrifying suggests that it instills an overwhelming sense of horror, dread, or panic. It implies that the experience is so terrifying that it paralyzes or makes one incapable of acting or thinking clearly. For example, a petrifying horror movie scene may depict a gruesome and shocking event that induces fear, making the viewer unable to move or look away. Similarly, one might experience a petrifying moment during an extreme sports activity when faced with an unexpectedly dangerous situation, causing an immediate sense of terror and an inability to react effectively.
The word petrifying also connotes a sense of permanency or long-lasting effect. It implies that the fear or terror caused by the described entity or situation is deeply ingrained in one's memory and may continue to haunt the individual for a significant period. Whether it is a petrifying nightmare or a petrifying encounter with a wild animal, the residual effects of the experience may manifest as recurring fear or trauma in the affected person's daily life.
In summary, petrifying is an adjective used to describe something that instills intense fear or terror in a person, often rendering them immobile or paralyzed with fright. It suggests a lasting impact and an experience that leaves a deep impression on the individual's psyche.
Converting into stone.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "petrifying" is derived from the Latin word "petrificare", which is a combination of "petra" meaning "rock" and "ficare" meaning "to make" or "to do". Thus, "petrificare" translates to "to make into stone". The word "petrify" has been in use in English since the late 16th century, originally meaning to transform organic matter into stone or to terrify someone to the point of immobilization, much like turning to stone. Over time, "petrifying" became an adjective to describe something that is extremely frightening or causing great fear.
