Meaning & Definition of word "Tame"

Tame

/teɪm/

verb:

  • 1. to domesticate or bring under control; to make less wild.
    • Example: They worked hard to tame the horse before riding it.
  • 2. to soften or calm down; to reduce intensity or aggressiveness.
    • Example: The new training program helped to tame the employees' aggressive tendencies.
  • 3. to make something less exciting or adventurous.
    • Example: The managers decided to tame the edgy advertising campaign to appeal to a wider audience.

adjective:

  • 1. domesticated or lacking in wildness; not dangerous or aggressive.
    • Example: The once wild animal became tame after living with humans for several years.
  • 2. exhibiting a lack of excitement; bland or unremarkable.
    • Example: The story was a bit tame, lacking the thrilling twists I expected.

Etymology

Middle English 'tame', from Old English 'tam', of Germanic origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Tame the wild side:

To control one's more reckless impulses.

Tame your fears:

To overcome or lessen one's anxiety.

Tame as a kitten:

Very gentle or submissive.

Related Words

domesticate:

To train a wild animal to live with humans.

subdue:

To bring under control or to conquer.

gentle:

Having a mild or kind nature.

Slang Meanings of tame

Meaning: To make something less intense

Example Sentence: I had to tame my excitement during the meeting.

Meaning: To chill out or relax

Example Sentence: You need to tame it down a bit before you get into trouble.