intimidate

/ˌɪntɪˈmeɪt, ˌɪnˈtɪmeɪt/

Definitions

1. verb

to make (someone) feel frightened or intimidated, often in order to get what you want

“The bully tried to intimidate the younger student into giving up his lunch money.”

2. verb

to threaten or make (someone) feel that they will be harmed or attacked

“The gang tried to intimidate the store owner into handing over the cash.”

3. noun

the act of making someone feel frightened or intimidated

“The intimidation tactics used by the company were considered unacceptable.”

4. noun

a feeling of fear or apprehension

“The player felt intimidation from the opposing team’s fans.”

Synonyms

  • bully
  • coerce
  • menace
  • threaten

Antonyms

  • embolden
  • encourage