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Meaning of Word

Menace refers to a person, thing, or situation that poses a threat or danger. It can also describe an act of threatening or intimidating someone.

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Noun: A threat or danger to someone or something.
   • Example: Pollution is a growing menace to the environment.
2. Noun: A person or thing likely to cause harm.
   • Example: The escaped convict is considered a menace to society.
3. Verb: To threaten or endanger.
   • Example: The dark clouds menaced the small village with a storm.
4. Verb: To express intent to harm or intimidate.
   • Example: He menaced the shopkeeper with a weapon.

History and Origin

The word “menace” originates from the Latin word minaciae, meaning “threats,” which derives from minax (“projecting” or “threatening”). It entered Old French as menace and then Middle English, retaining its connotations of danger or threat.

Detailed Explanation

“Menace” is used to describe situations or entities that pose harm or danger, either physically, emotionally, or metaphorically. As a noun, it refers to the threat itself, while as a verb, it denotes the act of threatening or endangering. Menace can describe tangible threats, like a dangerous individual, or intangible ones, like fear or societal issues.

Example Sentences

1. The growing menace of cybercrime concerns authorities worldwide.
2. The dog’s aggressive barking made him seem like a menace.
3. The storm clouds menaced the travelers with the promise of rain.
4. He is a constant menace in class, disrupting lessons regularly.
5. The new virus outbreak poses a menace to public health.
6. She felt menaced by his harsh tone and intimidating gestures.
7. The character in the movie was portrayed as a menacing villain.
8. Smoking is a menace to both individual and public health.
9. The gang’s presence menaced the peaceful neighborhood.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Threat: A potential source of harm or danger.
2. Danger: A state or situation that could cause harm.
3. Hazard: A risk or something likely to cause harm.
4. Peril: Serious and immediate danger.
5. Intimidation: The act of making someone feel afraid or threatened.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Risk: A situation involving exposure to danger.
2. Terror: Intense fear caused by threats or danger.
3. Scourge: Something that causes widespread suffering or trouble.
4. Bully: Someone who intimidates or threatens others.
5. Harassment: Persistent unwanted actions or threats.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Threatener: A person or entity that delivers threats.
2. Nuisance: Something annoying or causing minor trouble.
3. Villain: A harmful or threatening person, often in fiction.
4. Nemesis: A long-standing rival or enemy.
5. Instigator: Someone who initiates trouble or threats.

Antonyms

1. Protector
2. Defender
3. Savior
4. Safety
5. Guardian