View synonyms for tantalize

tantalize

[ tan-tl-ahyz ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

verb (used with object)

, tan·ta·lized, tan·ta·liz·ing.

to torment with, or as if with, the sight of something desired but out of reach; tease by arousing expectations that are repeatedly disappointed.
Synonyms: frustrate, tempt, taunt, provoke
Antonyms: satisfy

tantalize

/ ˈtæntəˌlaɪz /

tr to tease or make frustrated, as by tormenting with the sight of something greatly desired but inaccessible

First recorded in 1590–1600; Tantal(us) + -ize

C16: from the punishment of Tantalus

There was just enough to tantalize the poor brutes without filling their stomachs.

Details had vanished eons ago, but something still remained to tantalize imagination.

Trying to tantalize their victim, the Apaches made thrusts at Ensign Dave, and then leaped nimbly back.

Therefore we call it to tantalize a person to offer him a thing he longs for, and then to draw it away from him.

This singular punishment inflicted upon Tantalus gave rise to the expression “to tantalize.”

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

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