What does "Fear" mean?

Solution 1:

The fear icon indicates if you are able to perform a fear take-down. When lit up you can perform a fear take-down. If not, you will need to perform a silent take-down to reactivate it.

Please also note that if you have not performed a fear take-down yet, you have to progress a little further in the story. At the start this icon comes up before the mechanic itself is enabled. You should receive the fear take-down manoeuvre with the upgraded bat suit.