SCARED STIFF Meaning and
Definition
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Scared stiff is an idiomatic expression used to describe an extreme state of fear or apprehension that immobilizes a person, rendering them unable to move or react. This phrase alludes to the physical sensation of one's body becoming rigid or stiff as a result of intense fear.
When someone is scared stiff, they may experience a multitude of physiological and psychological responses. Their heart rate may increase, their muscles may tense up, and they may feel a surge of adrenaline. This intense fear can completely paralyze them, causing them to remain frozen in place, unable to think clearly or take any action.
The term "scared stiff" is often employed to convey the severity of a person's fear or anxiety. It implies that the individual is so terrified or startled by a particular situation or stimulus that they are momentarily rendered incapable of movement or speech. It can be used to describe a sudden and overwhelming fright experienced in various scenarios, such as encountering a dangerous creature, being confronted by a threatening person, or experiencing a terrifying event.
The phrase "scared stiff" is a vivid and evocative expression that effectively communicates the level of fear someone is experiencing. It is a figurative way of describing a state of extreme fright that literally leaves a person paralyzed or frozen, highlighting the depth and magnitude of their fear.
Common Misspellings for SCARED STIFF
- acared stiff
- zcared stiff
- xcared stiff
- dcared stiff
- ecared stiff
- wcared stiff
- sxared stiff
- svared stiff
- sfared stiff
- sdared stiff
- sczred stiff
- scsred stiff
- scwred stiff
- scqred stiff
- scaeed stiff
- scaded stiff
- scafed stiff
- scated stiff
- sca5ed stiff
- sca4ed stiff
Etymology of SCARED STIFF
The phrase "scared stiff" is derived from Old English and Middle English origins. The word "scared" comes from the Old Norse word "skirra" which means "to frighten or to jump away in fear". The word "stiff" comes from the Old English word "stīf", which means "rigid or firm". When these words are combined, "scared stiff" is used to describe a state of extreme fear or being frozen with fright. The phrase implies that something has caused such a strong reaction that one's body becomes rigid or stiff due to fear.
Idioms with the word SCARED STIFF
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scared stiff
The idiom "scared stiff" means to be extremely frightened or terrified to the point where one cannot move or act.
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