Intimidating
ɪnˈtɪmɪˌdeɪtɪŋ
Definitions
Causing someone to feel fear or a loss of confidence.
ɪnˈtɪmɪˌdeɪtɪŋ
Causing fear or a feeling of being threatened.
The large dog was intimidating, but friendly.
💡 Simply: Imagine a scary movie monster – that's intimidating! It makes you nervous or afraid.
👶 For kids: Making someone feel scared or worried.
More Examples
The lawyer's cross-examination was intentionally intimidating.
How It's Used
"An intimidating presence can deter unwanted behavior."
"The CEO's intimidating style was a source of anxiety for many employees."
"The team's intimidating defense made it difficult for opponents to score."
Idioms & expressions
intimidation tactics
Strategies used to frighten or coerce someone into doing something.
"The company used intimidation tactics to silence the whistleblowers."
From Latin *intimīdāre* 'to frighten', from *timēre* 'to fear'.
The word 'intimidate' and its related forms have been used since the 16th century, initially describing the act of making someone fearful.
Memory tip
Think of a menacing shadow that makes you shrink back; that's what intimidation does.