Meaning & Definition of word "Intimidate"
Intimidate
/ɪnˈtɪmɪˌdeɪt/
verb:
- 1. to make someone feel frightened or overawed, especially in order to make them do what one wants.
- Example: The bully tried to intimidate the younger students by threatening them.
- 2. to discourage or frighten someone from taking action by instilling fear.
- Example: She felt intimidated by the competitive atmosphere of the examination room.
- 3. to create a sense of fear or dread in someone as a method of control.
- Example: His aggressive demeanor was intended to intimidate his opponents in the meeting.
Etymology
●Late Middle English: from Latin 'intimidat-', the past participle of 'intimidare', from 'in-' (in, into) + 'timere' (to fear).
Common Phrases and Expressions
intimidate someone into doing something:
to scare someone into compliance or action
intimidating presence:
a person who naturally creates fear or awe in others
don't be intimidated:
a phrase encouraging someone not to allow fear to stop them
Related Words
fear:
an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous
terrorize:
to create a state of extreme fear in a victim
harass:
to subject someone to aggressive pressure or intimidation
Slang Meanings of intimidate
Meaning: to freak someone out
● Example Sentence: The way he bragged about his connections really freaked me out.
Meaning: to scare off
● Example Sentence: She told me to act tough so that they wouldn't scare us off.