\A*fraid"\, p. a. [OE. afrayed, affraide, p. p. of
afraien to affray. See {Affray}, and cf. {Afeard}.]
Impressed with fear or apprehension; in fear; apprehensive.
[Afraid comes after the noun it limits.] ``Back they
recoiled, afraid.'' --Milton.
Note: This word expresses a less degree of fear than
      terrified or frightened. It is followed by of before
      the object of fear, or by the infinitive, or by a
      dependent clause; as, to be afraid of death. ``I am
      afraid to die.'' ``I am afraid he will chastise me.''
      ``Be not afraid that I your hand should take.'' --Shak.
      I am afraid is sometimes used colloquially to soften a
      statement; as, I am afraid I can not help you in this
      matter.
Syn: Fearful; timid; timorous; alarmed; anxious.