nightmares

word · lemma: nightmare

/ˈnaɪtˌmɛɹz/
NYT-mairz
/nˈaɪtmeəz/
NYT-airz

Definition

Very scary or upsetting dreams that can wake you up or leave you feeling afraid. The word can also describe a terrible experience or situation in everyday life.

Usage & Nuances

Usually used as a plural countable noun for bad dreams: 'have nightmares' is the most common pattern. In everyday speech, 'a nightmare' can also mean something extremely difficult or unpleasant, as in 'The trip was a nightmare.'

Example Sentences

My son has nightmares after watching scary movies.

basic

She wakes up at night because of nightmares.

basic

I had terrible nightmares last week.

basic

Ever since the accident, he's been having nightmares almost every night.

natural

Those old nightmares came back when I was under a lot of stress.

natural

Planning the event without enough help was an absolute nightmares.

natural