Menace – Definition, Meaning and Synonyms

Definition of Menace (adjective)

Menace is an adjective that describes something or someone that poses a threat, danger, or sense of harm. It conveys an aura of intimidation or the potential to cause trouble or danger.

Examples

• The menacing tone in his voice sent chills down.
• The dark clouds looked menace before the storm.
• Her menacing glare made everyone feel uneasy.
• The menacing atmosphere in the room was palpable.
• A menace shadow loomed over the deserted alley.
• The stray dog’s menacing growl kept them on edge.
• The menace figure moved silently in the background.
• The menace warnings were ignored at their peril.

Meaning

• Threatening
• Dangerous
• Intimidating

Pronunciation

• UK: /ˈmɛnɪs/ (MEN-iss)
• US: /ˈmɛnəs/ (MEN-uhs)

Synonyms

• Threatening
• Intimidating
• Alarming
• Ominous
• Hostile
• Foreboding
• Perilous
• Sinister
• Dangerous
• Dreadful

Usage Tips for Menace

• Used to describe things or people that feel threatening.
• It often implies the potential for harm or danger.
• Avoid using it for harmless or trivial situations.
• It can describe both physical and emotional threats.
• Best used for creating an ominous or foreboding tone.

Origin

Menace (1300-1400):

It is derived from the Latin minaciae, which means threats or menacing gestures. The root minari means to threaten.

Similar Words to Menace

• Threatening
• Ominous
• Alarming
• Intimidating
• Sinister
• Hostile
• Perilous
• Dangerous
• Dreadful
• Foreboding

FAQs

Q: What is the meaning of menace in Urdu?

Ans: In Urdu, menace means خطرہ or دھمکی.

Q: How do we use menace in a sentence?

Ans: The menacing storm on the horizon forced them to evacuate.

Q: What’s the difference between menace and ominous?

Ans: Menace emphasizes active threat while ominous hints at an impending one.

Related Words: