Dread \Dread\ (dr[e^]d), v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Dreaded}; p. pr. &
vb. n. {Dreading}.] [AS. dr[=ae]dan, in comp.; akin to OS.
dr[=a]dan, OHG. tr[=a]tan, both only in comp.]
To fear in a great degree; to regard, or look forward to,
with terrific apprehension.
[1913 Webster]
When at length the moment dreaded through so many years
came close, the dark cloud passed away from Johnson's
mind. --Macaulay.
[1913 Webster]