HAIR RAISING Meaning and
Definition
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Hair-raising is an adjective that describes something thrilling, exhilarating, or extremely frightening, inducing a feeling of terror or intense excitement. Derived from the literal sensation of one's hair standing on end, the term implies an experience that evokes strong emotions, often causing a feeling of unease or fear.
When used figuratively, hair-raising refers to actions, events, or situations that are so intense or shocking that they could potentially make one's hair stand on end metaphorically. This term is commonly associated with thrilling or suspenseful stories, ghostly encounters, or any situation that generates a high level of adrenaline. For example, a hair-raising roller coaster ride entails heart-pounding twists and turns, leaving riders with an exhilarating sensation.
Moreover, hair-raising can also emphasize the shocking or extremely dangerous nature of an event or situation. A hair-raising escape from a burning building implies that the experience was so terrifying or perilous that it makes one's hair stand on end, symbolizing the imminence of danger.
Overall, the term hair-raising inherently suggests a level of intensity, excitement, or fear that triggers a notable physical reaction. Its usage offers a colorful way of expressing the thrilling or disturbing impact of an experience, engaging the reader or listener on a visceral level.
Common Misspellings for HAIR RAISING
Etymology of HAIR RAISING
The phrase "hair raising" originates from the literal effect that fear or excitement can have on the hair. When someone experiences a strong sensation such as fear, the hair on their body may stand on end, causing a "raising" effect. This physical reaction is known as "piloerection". The term "hair raising" has been used metaphorically since the 1700s to describe something that is alarming, thrilling, or causes a strong emotional response. It describes a feeling that is intense enough to make one's hair stand on end, similar to the literal reaction.
Similar spelling words for HAIR RAISING
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