fright

Fright is a sudden, intense feeling of fear or alarm in response to a startling or potentially dangerous stimulus. It is typically brief and automatic, helping the individual quickly assess and react to a possible threat. In everyday use, fright is distinguished from fear, which refers to a longer-lasting emotional state or concern.

Physiologically, fright activates the body's fight-or-flight response, releasing adrenaline and causing increased heart rate, faster breathing, and heightened senses. The startle reflex may produce a brief automatic reaction such as a jump or freeze. Neurologically, the amygdala plays a central role in rapidly evaluating threatening cues and triggering autonomic arousal, sometimes before conscious awareness.

Fright can be triggered by sudden noises, unexpected movements, or abrupt changes in one’s environment. It may occur even when the danger is not real, due to misperception or novelty. Most episodes of fright dissipate quickly; however, frequent or severe fright can increase general sensitivity to surprising stimuli and may influence future reactions.

In language and culture, fright is often associated with vivid, abrupt experiences or scenes described as frightful. It is used to convey a sharp moment of danger or alarm, rather than ongoing anxiety. Some clinical discussions distinguish acute fright from chronic anxiety or trauma-related responses, noting that while fright is typically transient, repeated exposures or certain contexts can affect an individual’s threshold for startle and perceived threat.