medonho

Medonho is a Portuguese adjective used to describe something that inspires fear, dread, or a sense of menace. It can refer to a person with a frightening appearance, a situation that feels ominous, or an object that gives rise to unease. The term carries a stronger connotation than simply “scary,” emphasizing an impression of danger or horror.

Etymology and forms: Medonho likely derives from the noun medo (fear) with the derivational suffix -onho, a pattern in Portuguese that intensifies or characterizes a quality. The word agrees in gender and number: medonho (masc. sing.), medonha (fem. sing.), medonhos (masc. plur.), medonhas (fem. plur.). It is most commonly used in narrative and descriptive contexts.

Usage: Medonho appears in literary and colloquial Portuguese to convey a vivid sense of threat or eeriness. It can describe people, places, or events that evoke apprehension. For example: “A casa abandonada tinha um aspecto medonho à noite.” “Ouvi um som medonho vindo do sótão.” While closely related terms include assutador, assustador, and pavoroso, medonho often adds a qualitative impression of something truly intimidating rather than merely surprising.

See also: medo, medroso, assustador, pavoroso.

Overall, medonho is a descriptive, slightly evocative adjective used to convey a strong, fear-inducing character or atmosphere in Portuguese.