DictionaryfreakExtreme distress
verb

freak

To become or make someone extremely upset or frightened.

The unexpected alarm freaks her out.

Etymology

Freak has long referred to an unusual turn or departure from the ordinary. The verb, especially freak out, describes an extreme emotional reaction in which ordinary composure breaks down.

More examples

  • He freaked when he saw the damage.
  • The strange noise has freaked everyone out.
  • They were freaking out over the missing tickets.

Forms

freak · freaks · freaked · freaking

Similar words

panic
Emphasizes sudden overwhelming fear.
alarm
Can cause concern without the same intense reaction.