strike terror into (one's) heart

strike terror into (one's) heart

To frighten, terrify, or horrify someone. Can also be phrased "strike terror into the heart of (someone)." While rather impractical and ineffective in combat, the use of flamethrowers in World War II was very effective at striking terror into the hearts of civilians and enemy soldiers alike. The recent epidemic has struck terror into people's hearts around the world.See also: heart, strike, terror