A*fraid" (#), p. a. [OE. afrayed, affraide, p. p. of afraien to affray. See Affray, and cf. Afeard.]

Impressed with fear or apprehension; in fear; apprehensive.

[Afraid comes after the noun it limits.] "Back they recoiled, afraid."

Milton.

⇒ This word expresses a less degree of fear than terrified or frightened. It is followed by of before the object of fear, or by the infinitive, or by a dependent clause; as, to be afraid of death. "I am afraid to die." "I am afraid he will chastise me." "Be not afraid that I your hand should take." Shak. I am afraid is sometimes used colloquially to soften a statement; as, I am afraid I can not help you in this matter.

Syn. -- Fearful; timid; timorous; alarmed; anxious.

 

© Webster 1913.

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