threaten
threaten Lexical Profile
threaten Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To express an intention to inflict harm, punishment, or hostile action on someone, especially in retribution or as a means of coercion.
"The landlord was fined for attempting to threaten the tenants with unlawful eviction."
To put someone or something at risk of damage, loss, or destruction; to endanger.
"Rising sea temperatures continue to threaten fragile coral reef ecosystems around the globe."
To give warning signs of being imminent or likely to occur (especially of an undesirable event or weather condition).
"Heavy dark clouds gathered over the valley and began to threaten rain before the outdoor concert."
• Rhymes for threaten
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English threatnian ('to press, urge, compel, or menace'), formed from the noun threat ('crowd, pressure, or calamity'), ultimately from a Proto-Germanic root meaning 'to push or press'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.