Nightmare

Definition

Nightmare is a noun and, less commonly, a verb. As a noun, it refers to a disturbing dream associated with fear, anxiety, or terror, or a very distressing or unpleasant situation. As a verb (rare), it can mean to experience a nightmare.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (rare)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnaɪtˌmɛr/
• Respelling: NYTE-mayr

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnaɪtˌmɛə/
• Respelling: NYTE-mayuh

Etymology

The word "nightmare" originates from Middle English "nighte" (night) and "mare," an Old English term for an evil spirit or goblin believed to sit on people's chests while they slept, causing bad dreams. The term evolved in the 16th century to mean disturbing dreams.

Derivatives

• Nightmarish (adjective)
• Nightmaring (verb form, rare)
• Nightmarishly (adverb)
• Nightmarishness (noun)
• Nightmarelike (adjective)

Synonyms

• Bad dream
• Terror
• Ordeal

Antonyms

• Daydream
• Reverie
• Peace

Usage

The term "nightmare" is used to describe both literal bad dreams and metaphorically unpleasant situations. For example, "She woke up from a terrible nightmare" (literal) or "The traffic jam was a nightmare" (figurative).

Related Terms

• Dream: A series of thoughts, images, or sensations occurring during sleep.
• Insomnia: The inability to sleep, often linked to nightmares.
• Sleep terror: A severe sleep disturbance often confused with nightmares.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A disturbing or frightening dream: A dream that induces fear, anxiety, or discomfort.
  • Example: "He had a recurring nightmare about being chased."
• An extremely unpleasant experience: Refers to a distressing or challenging situation in waking life.
  • Example: "Dealing with the bureaucracy was a nightmare."

Verb (rare)

• To experience a nightmare: The act of having a bad dream.
  • Example: "She nightmared about the exam all night."