What does PERIL mean?

Parts of Speech: noun, verb

Definitions:

• (n.) serious and immediate danger
• (v.) expose to danger; threaten

Pronunciations:

• US: /ˈperəl/
• UK: /ˈperɪl/

Origin and Usage: The word "peril" originated from the Old French word "peril" (13th century) and the Latin word "periculum" (meaning "trial, risk, danger"). It has been used in English since the 14th century. The word is commonly used in formal and informal contexts to describe a situation of serious and immediate danger.

Synonyms: danger, jeopardy, risk, hazard, threat

Related Words: hazard, risked, warned, dared, feared

Example Sentences:

• The climbers faced great peril as they attempted to reach the summit of the mountain.
• The companys financial situation was in peril due to the economic downturn.
• The captain refused to put his crew in peril by sailing into the storm.
• The hikers lack of preparation put him in peril when he became lost in the wilderness.
• The safety of the hostages was in peril as negotiations broke down.