n. 1. An expression of an intention to inflict pain, harm, or punishment. 2. An indication of impending danger or harm: a threat of frost in the air. 3. One that is regarded as a possible source of harm or danger: viewed the stranger as a threat to the community. 4. The condition of being in danger or at risk: under threat of attack. tr.v. threat·ed, threat·ing, threats Archaic To threaten. [Middle English, from Old English thrēat, oppression; see treud- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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