intimidate

Definition

To make timid or afraid; to cause to feel fear or nervousness; to deter, especially by threats of violence.

Etymology

From Medieval Latin intimidātus, perfect passive participle of Latin intimidō (“to intimidate, terrify”) (see -ate (verb-forming suffix)), from in- (“in”) + timidus (“afraid, timid”) + -ō (verb-forming suffix); see timid.

Example Sentences

• "He's trying to intimidate you. If you ignore him, hopefully he'll stop."
• "His father tried to intimidate his son into staying, threatening him with banishment and a possible beating."

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