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Definition of intimidate

intimidate

/ɪnˈtɪmɪdeɪt/
in · tim · i · date
Adverb:intimidatingly
•
Adjective:intimidating
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Past Simple:intimidated
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Past Participle:intimidated
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Present Participle:intimidating
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intimidate Lexical Profile

intimidate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To frighten, overawe, or make someone feel nervous and inadequate, especially in order to coerce them into doing what one wants.

Example

"The defense attorney tried to intimidate the witness with aggressive questioning, but she remained calm and composed."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for intimidate
Antonyms
View all antonyms for intimidate

• Nearby Words

intimate
intimately
intimates
intimidate
intimidating
intimidatingly
intimidation

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-17th century from Medieval Latin intimidatus, the past participle of intimidare ('to make afraid'), formed from in- ('into') and timidus ('fearful', from timere, 'to fear').

Cite this Entry

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