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petrify

/ˈpɛtrɪfaɪ/ verb · British & US
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What does petrify mean?

verb

to cause someone or something to become extremely frightened or shocked, so that they are unable to move or speak. to preserve something, especially a fossil, by replacing the original material with stone.

Example

"The horror movie petrified the audience, leaving them frozen in their seats."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymologically related

Synonyms for petrify

Antonyms of petrify

Rhymes with petrify