Words are powerful. They can inspire, persuade, inform, and entertain. But they can also terrify, horrify, disturb, and shock. Some words have such a negative connotation that they can evoke fear and dread in the minds of the listeners or readers. In this article, we will explore some of the scariest words that start with w and their meanings. Be warned: these words are not for the faint of heart.

Wail

A wail is a loud, high-pitched, and prolonged cry of pain, grief, or anger. It is often associated with ghosts, banshees, and other supernatural beings that haunt the night. A wail can also be a sound of alarm, warning, or distress. According to Merriam-Webster, the word wail comes from the Middle English word waylen, which means “to cry out”.

War

War is a state of armed conflict between nations, groups, or individuals. It involves violence, death, destruction, and suffering. War can also refer to a struggle or competition between opposing forces or interests. According to Oxford Languages, the word war comes from the Old High German word werra, which means “confusion” or “strife”.

Wicked

Wicked is an adjective that describes something or someone that is evil, immoral, or malicious. It can also mean mischievous, playful, or clever in a negative way. Wicked can also be used as an adverb to emphasize the degree or intensity of something. According to Etymonline, the word wicked comes from the Old English word wicca, which means “witch” or “sorcerer”.

Wound

A wound is an injury to the body caused by a cut, stab, bullet, or other weapon. It can also refer to a mental or emotional hurt or trauma. A wound can cause pain, bleeding, infection, or scarring. According to Oxford Languages, the word wound comes from the Old English word wund, which means “injury” or “bruise”.

Wrath

Wrath is a noun that means intense anger, rage, or fury. It can also refer to the punishment or vengeance inflicted by someone or something as a result of anger. Wrath can also be used as an adjective to describe something that is very angry or violent. According to Merriam-Webster, the word wrath comes from the Old English word wræððu, which means “torment” or “affliction”.