threatened

The word “threatened” means at risk of being harmed or becoming endangered. In plain terms, at risk of harm, or feeling unsafe and insecure.

“Threatened” is pronounced THREHT-nd (/ˈθɹɛt.n̩d/ in IPA).

Here is “threatened” used in a sentence: “The tiger is classified as a threatened species.”

“Threatened” is an adjective.

“Threatened” is a fairly common word in modern English.

“Threatened” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: at risk of being harmed or becoming endangered.

'Threatened' describes something that is at risk of harm, or someone who feels insecure or vulnerable. 'Threatening' describes something that poses or expresses a threat, such as a threatening gesture, so the two are opposite in direction.

'Threatened' means at risk of being harmed or of becoming endangered, so it is a broader, earlier stage. 'Endangered' means seriously at risk of dying out, and in conservation it is a specific, more severe status than 'threatened'.

Feeling 'threatened' means feeling insecure, unsafe, or vulnerable, as if you or something you value is at risk. Feeling 'intimidated' is more specific and means feeling frightened or overawed by someone or something, often into holding back.

You say someone feels 'threatened' when they sense a risk to their safety, status, or security, whether or not any real danger is present. It captures the emotional response of insecurity and vulnerability rather than a physical injury.