Pronunciation: [ɐfˈi͡ə] (IPA) 
The word "afear" is not commonly used anymore, but it can be spelled as either "afeard" or "afeared". The IPA phonetic transcription for the first spelling is /əˈfɪəd/, while the second one is /əˈfɪəd/ as well. Both spellings are variations of the past participle of the verb "afear", meaning "to frighten". Despite the slight difference in spelling, they are pronounced the same way and can be used interchangeably in most contexts.
Afear is a verb that has seen limited usage over time and refers to the act of instilling fear or terror in someone, usually causing them to shrink back or cower in fright. It is derived from Old English and is considered archaic or obsolete in contemporary language.
To "afear" someone involves arousing a profound sense of fear within them, typically through a threatening or menacing presence, words, or actions. This term implies inducing a state of terror that can overwhelm an individual, rendering them terrified, anxious, or intimidated. The effect of being afear can vary depending on the person and the circumstances, but it often has the power to paralyze or immobilize someone, preventing them from acting or thinking rationally.
The verb "afear" suggests the act of inspiring fear in an individual or group, either deliberately or unintentionally. It is sometimes associated with the notion of alarming or alarming someone, as it implies stirring up deep-seated emotions of fear or dread. Though the term has fallen out of common usage, it is still occasionally found in literary works, poetry, or historical texts that seek to evoke a sense of antiquity or evoke a specific atmosphere.
In summary, "afear" is a verb from Old English meaning to cause intense fear or dread in someone, making them recoil or feel apprehensive. While not commonly used or recognized in modern language, it carries connotations of inspiring terror or alarm in others.
The word "afear" or "afeared" can be traced back to Old English. It is derived from the Old English word "aferian", which meant "to frighten" or "to terrify". This word ultimately comes from the Proto-Germanic root "afarōną". Over time, as the English language evolved, the pronunciation and spelling of the word changed, and it eventually became "afear" or "afeared". The term is not widely used in modern English but can still be found in certain dialects or literary contexts.
