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Definition of intimidating

intimidating

/ɪnˈtɪm.ɪ.deɪ.tɪŋ/
in · tim · i · dat · ing
Adverb:intimidatingly
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intimidating Lexical Profile

intimidating Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having a frightening, overawing, or threatening effect that makes someone feel nervous, inadequate, or less confident.

Example

"Speaking in front of a large audience of industry experts can be an intimidating experience for a newcomer."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for intimidating

• Rhymes for intimidating

• Nearby Words

intimately
intimates
intimidate
intimidating
intimidatingly
intimidation
intimidator

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb intimidate, which entered English in the mid-17th century from Medieval Latin intimidatus, the past participle of intimidare ('to make fearful'), formed from in- ('into') and timidus ('fearful').

Cite this Entry

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