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intimidates - 1 dictionary results
in·tim·i·date     (ĭn-tĭm'ĭ-dāt')  Pronunciation Key 
tr.v.   in·tim·i·dat·ed, in·tim·i·dat·ing, in·tim·i·dates
  1. To make timid; fill with fear.
  2. To coerce or inhibit by or as if by threats.


[Medieval Latin intimidāre, intimidāt- : Latin in-, causative pref.; see in-2 + Latin timidus, timid; see timid.]

in·tim'i·dat'ing·ly adv., in·tim'i·da'tion n., in·tim'i·da'tor n.
Synonyms: These verbs all mean to frighten into submission, compliance, or acquiescence. Intimidate implies the presence or operation of a fear-inspiring force: "It [atomic energy] may intimidate the human race into bringing order into its international affairs" (Albert Einstein).
Browbeat suggests the persistent application of highhanded, disdainful, or imperious tactics: browbeating a witness.
Bulldoze connotes the leveling of all spirit of opposition: was bulldozed into hiring an unacceptable candidate.
Cow implies bringing out an abject state of timorousness and often demoralization: a dog that was cowed by abuse.
To bully is to intimidate through blustering, domineering, or threatening behavior: workers who were bullied into accepting a poor contract.
Bludgeon suggests the use of grossly aggressive or combative methods: had to be bludgeoned into fulfilling his duties.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2006 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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