The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

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]