verb
threaten
THRET-un/ˈθretn/
To expose someone or something to possible harm.
The angry neighbor threatens the garden with a clenched fist and hostile declaration.
Etymology
Old English þreatnian was based on þreat, meaning “oppression, coercion, menace.” The selected sense preserves that coercive force: stating an intention to harm or punish is a way of menacing someone.
In context
… you can threaten hiring a lawyer. Generally doesn't work. You generally don't want to threaten a company
More examples
- Air pollution threatens the health of nearby residents.
- Budget cuts threatened the library's weekend hours.
- The bully threatens to hurt anyone who reports him.
Forms
threaten · threatens · threatened · threatening
threat noun — A possible danger or warning of harm.
Similar words
- endanger
- Emphasizes putting someone or something in actual danger.
- jeopardize
- Often concerns risking success, security, or a valued opportunity.
- imperil
- More formal, often suggesting serious danger to survival or safety.