fierce

Universal Words adjective (fiercer, fiercest) 1 (especially of people or animals) angry and aggressive in a way that is frightening: a fierce dog * Who was that fierce old lady? * Two fierce eyes glared at them. * He suddenly looked fierce. * She spoke in a fierce whisper. * The more she struggled, the fiercer he became. 2 (especially of actions or emotions) showing strong feelings or a lot of activity, often in a way that is violent: fierce loyalty / hatred * the scene of fierce fighting * He launched a fierce attack on the Democrats. * Competition from abroad became fiercer in the 1990s. * His wife is his fiercest critic. * The bill was passed despite fierce opposition. 3 (of weather conditions or temperatures) very strong in a way that could cause damage: protection against the fierce wind coming in off the sea * the fierce heat of the flames fiercely adverb: 'Let go of me,' she said fiercely. * fiercely competitive / independent / proud * They remain fiercely opposed to outside intervention. * The aircraft was burning fiercely. fierceness noun [U] IDIOMS something fierce (AmE, spoken) very much; more than usual: I sure do miss you something fierce!