Petrify
mediumNegative tonePET-rih-fy
verb
Definition
To make someone so frightened that they are unable to move or think; to become hardened or rigid
Memory hook
PETRI-FY: Turn to STONE (petra) -- so scared you can't move, frozen like a rock.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The horror movie petrified the young children.”
“Ancient wood can petrify into stone over millions of years.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Ancient wood can ______ into stone over millions of years.”
Show answer
petrify
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Petrify is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "terrify" or "paralyze" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "reassure".
Related GRE Words
ossify
To become rigid or fixed in attitude, opinion, or habit
dogmatic
Inclined to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true
intransigent
Unwilling or refusing to change one's views or agree; uncompromising
obdurate
Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action
trepidation
A feeling of fear or agitation about something that may happen
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
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