verb
cow
To subdue someone through fear or pressure.
The threat fails to cow the witnesses.
Etymology
Old Norse kúga meant to oppress or force. The verb cow preserves that domination, describing the use of fear or pressure to make someone submit.
More examples
- He was cowed into silence.
- They have never cowed her into agreement.
- The official was trying to cow his critics.
Forms
cow · cows · cowed · cowing
Similar words
- intimidate
- Frightens someone into compliance.
- daunt
- Discourages or overwhelms someone's confidence.