capitulate

/kæpɪˈtʊleɪt/

Definitions

1. verb

to surrender or give in to an enemy or an opposing force, often in a military context, or to yield to a demand or pressure

“The army was forced to capitulate after being surrounded by the enemy.”

2. verb

to give up or abandon a position, a principle, or a plan

“The company was forced to capitulate to the changing market trends and adjust its business strategy.”

3. noun

a surrender or yielding, especially in a military context

“The capitulation of the city was a major blow to the enemy’s morale.”

4. noun

a sudden and decisive change in a person’s or a group’s position, attitude, or behavior

“The politician’s capitulation on the issue was a surprise to his supporters.”

Synonyms

  • give in
  • submit
  • surrender
  • yield

Antonyms

  • hold out
  • persist
  • resist