SCARE STIFF Meaning and
Definition
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"Scare stiff" is an idiomatic expression used to describe an extreme and intense state of fear or terror that immobilizes someone physically or mentally. It is often used in a figurative sense to depict a sudden and overwhelming fright that can cause a person to freeze or become paralyzed momentarily due to the shock or horror experienced.
The term "scare stiff" stems from the notion that fear can be so intense that it renders an individual stiff or rigid, temporarily inhibiting their ability to move or react. This expression is commonly used to describe situations where people are so terrified that they are petrified and unable to respond or comprehend what is happening around them. It can also refer to situations where someone is utterly petrified by a sudden, unexpected scare or shocking event.
The term is frequently seen in literature, movies, and plays to heighten the dramatic effect of fear and suspense. It captures the idea that fear can have a paralyzing effect on an individual, temporarily freezing their thoughts and actions.
Overall, "scare stiff" represents a state of extreme fear that momentarily immobilizes someone, leaving them unable to move or react due to the intensity of the fright.
Common Misspellings for SCARE STIFF
- acare stiff
- zcare stiff
- xcare stiff
- dcare stiff
- ecare stiff
- wcare stiff
- sxare stiff
- svare stiff
- sfare stiff
- sdare stiff
- sczre stiff
- scsre stiff
- scwre stiff
- scqre stiff
- scaee stiff
- scade stiff
- scafe stiff
- scate stiff
- sca5e stiff
- sca4e stiff
Etymology of SCARE STIFF
The phrase "scare stiff" has its origins in 19th-century English. The word "scare" comes from the Old Norse "skirra" meaning "to frighten or scare". The term "stiff" in this context means "motionless" or "rigid". When combined, "scare stiff" refers to a state of being paralyzed or extremely frightened to the point of becoming stiff and immobile. It is commonly used to describe a sudden and intense fright that leaves a person frozen with fear.
Idioms with the word SCARE STIFF
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scare stiff
To scare someone so much that they are frozen with fear.
