The phrase "terror stricken" is spelled using the standard English alphabet, but its pronunciation can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word, "terror," is pronounced with a "t" sound followed by a short "e" sound and an "r" sound. The second word, "stricken," has a "str" consonant cluster followed by a long "i" sound and a final "n" sound. Together, these two words create a powerful image of someone who is overcome with fear or horror.
Terror stricken is an adjective that describes a state of extreme fear, panic, or terror. The term is commonly used to depict individuals or groups who have been overwhelmed by an intense and overwhelming sense of dread, horror, or terror.
When someone is terror stricken, they are typically so consumed by fear that it becomes paralyzing, inhibiting their ability to think, act, or respond rationally. This deep sense of alarm and distress can be prompted by various factors, such as witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event, being confronted with a life-threatening situation, or encountering something that goes beyond the realm of what is considered normal or expected.
The physical manifestations of being terror stricken can vary from person to person, but commonly include trembling, shaking, an increased heart rate, rapid or shallow breathing, sweating, and a feeling of being frozen or unable to move. The psychological impact of terror stricken may include nightmares, flashbacks, persistent anxiety, or a general feeling of unease even in non-threatening situations.
The term "terror stricken" often implies a profound and overwhelming fright that goes beyond the temporary fear experienced in stressful situations. It emphasizes the extreme magnitude of the fear, highlighting the individual's inability to cope or function normally due to the intensity and severity of their terror.
The word "terror stricken" is a combination of the noun "terror" and the past participle "stricken" of the verb "strike".
The noun "terror" comes from the Latin word "terrere" meaning "to frighten" or "fill with fear". It was later adopted into Middle English as "terror" with the same meaning.
The past participle "stricken" is derived from the Old English word "strīcan" meaning "to hit" or "to strike". Over time, "stricken" evolved to be used as an adjective to describe a person or thing that has been deeply affected or overwhelmed by something.
So, when "terror" and "stricken" are combined, "terror stricken" means someone or something that has been struck or affected by extreme fear or terror.