hair-raising
/ˈheə reɪzɪŋ/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈher reɪzɪŋ/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈher-ˌrā-ziŋ/ (ame, mw)
hair-raising — adjective
1. so frightening that it also shocks or thrills you; used to describe a situation,
so frightening that it also shocks or thrills you; used to describe a situation, story, or experience that is both scary and exciting at the same time.
The roller coaster gave us a hair-raising ride through three loops at top speed.
typical collocation: hair-raising ride
Wei told a hair-raising story about getting lost in the Himalayas at night.
typical collocation: hair-raising story
The documentary showed hair-raising footage of the rescue team pulling climbers to safety.
Amina's hair-raising escape from the burning building was on the evening news.
Driving down that narrow mountain road in thick fog was a truly hair-raising experience.
- terrifying
emphasises pure fear without the thrill element
- spine-chilling
similar intensity, often used for stories or films
- bloodcurdling
stronger and more graphic, typically describing a sound or sight
- frightening
more general and less intense; lacks the excitement component
- calming
produces the opposite emotional effect
- reassuring
makes you feel safe rather than scared
文法句型
hair-raising + noun
be + hair-raising
用法筆記
Unlike 'frightening' or 'terrifying,' this word carries a suggestion of excitement or thrill alongside the fear. It fits best with experiences, adventures, stories, or rides — not with ordinary worries or mild discomfort.