verb

intimidate

in-TIM-i-dayt/ɪnˈtɪmɪdeɪt/

To make people afraid, especially to influence their behavior.

One adult looms over another, pointing a finger to intimidate the other person.

A large adult looms with stern pointed finger over another adult who shrinks back reluctantly, intimidation without violence.

Etymology

inLatinin, into

+timidLatinfearful

+ateLatinparticipial ending

The prefix in- combines with timidus, “fearful,” in a verb meaning “make afraid.” Intimidating people uses that fear to deter or restrain them through threats.

In context

HM 40th Regt of Foot / 2nd Batt. LI33:00

they're cheering, they're shouting, they're sort of giving, uou know a haloo to the enemy as they're coming in. This is designed to intimidate the American forces, get them to withdraw off the battlefield

Dr Alexander Burns - Infantry in Battle, 1733-1783

More examples

The threats intimidate witnesses into staying silent.
Don't let the complicated instructions intimidate you.
She refuses to be intimidated by her boss.

Forms

intimidate · intimidates · intimidated · intimidating

intimidation noun — The act of frightening someone to influence behavior.

intimidating adjective — Causing fear or a loss of confidence.

Similar words

frighten: Focuses on causing fear without necessarily trying to control behavior.
cow: Specifically means frightening people until they become submissive.