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Definition of browbeat

browbeat

/ˈbraʊ.biːt/
brow · beat
Past Simple:browbeat
•
Past Participle:browbeaten
•
Present Participle:browbeating
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browbeat Lexical Profile

browbeat Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To intimidate or coerce someone with stern, arrogant, or overbearing words or looks, typically in order to force them to do something.

Example

"The defense attorney was reprimanded by the judge for attempting to browbeat the nervous witness on the stand."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for browbeat

• Nearby Words

brouhaha
brow
browallia
browbeat
browbone
brown
brown anole

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 16th century from 'brow' (from Old English 'brū') and 'beat' (from Old English 'bēatan'), literally meaning to beat someone down with stern looks or knitted eyebrows.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Browbeat. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/browbeat
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