Horrific/həˈrɪfɪk/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Extreme Fear Use 'horrific' to describe scenes or events that deeply scare people. The horror movie had some horrific moments that left audiences trembling. Pro Tip 2/3Shock Value 'Horrific' often indicates that something is shockingly graphic or violent. The documentary showed the horrific effects of war on civilians. Pro Tip 3/3Not Hyperbole Avoid using 'horrific' for mild fear; it's reserved for extreme situations. Survivors gave horrific accounts of the earthquake's aftermath.