Pronunciation: [hˈɒɹɪfˌa͡ɪ] (IPA) 
Horrify is spelt with two r's and one f. The first syllable is pronounced with the short o sound, /hɒr/, followed by the stressed second syllable which is pronounced with the long i sound, /aɪ/. The final syllable is pronounced with the f sound, /faɪ/. The word means to cause extreme fear or shock. As a transitive verb, it is commonly used in the passive voice, as in "I was horrified by what I saw".
Horrify is a verb that refers to the act of causing intense fear, shock, or disgust in someone. When something or someone horrifies an individual, it means that it evokes strong negative emotions, often leading to feelings of terror, revulsion, or abhorrence. This term is usually employed to describe an intense reaction to witnessing or experiencing an event, behavior, or situation that is deeply disturbing or repugnant.
The verb horrify can be used in various contexts. For example, a shocking and brutal crime might horrify a community or society, leaving people feeling scared and disgusted. In literature, a writer can aim to horrify readers by describing grotesque or macabre scenes that elicit feelings of horror and dread. Similarly, movies or documentaries that depict graphic violence or horrific events can be said to horrify viewers.
It is important to note that the word horrify implies a more extreme reaction than being scared or frightened. Horrify tends to evoke a visceral response, shaking a person to their core. It often leaves individuals feeling disturbed, traumatized, or deeply unsettled by what they've witnessed or heard.
Overall, horrify conveys the idea of an extreme emotional and psychological disturbance caused by something deeply unsettling, often inciting terror, shock, and repugnance towards the object or situation that evokes such reaction.
To strike with horror; to render horrible.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "horrify" originated from the Late Latin word "horrificare", which is derived from the Latin word "horror", meaning "terror" or "dread". "Horrificare" combines "horrere", meaning "to tremble" or "to shudder", with the suffix "-ficare", indicating the act of making or causing something. Over time, "horrify" emerged in the English language with the specific meaning of causing extreme fear, shock, or disgust.
