Definition of intimidate

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in·tim·i·date    (n-tm-dt) KEY 

TRANSITIVE VERB:
in·tim·i·dat·ed, in·tim·i·dat·ing, in·tim·i·dates

1. To make timid; fill with fear.
2. To coerce or inhibit by or as if by threats.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Medieval Latin intimidre, intimidt- : Latin in-, causative pref. ; see in-² + Latin timidus, timid ; see timid

OTHER FORMS:
in·timi·dating·ly(Adverb), in·timi·dation(Noun), in·timi·dator(Noun)

SYNONYMS:
intimidate, browbeat, bulldoze, cow², bully¹, bludgeon

These verbs all mean to frighten into submission, compliance, or acquiescence. Intimidate implies the presence or operation of a fear-inspiring force: "It [atomic energy] may intimidate the human race into bringing order into its international affairs" (Albert Einstein). Browbeat suggests the persistent application of highhanded, disdainful, or imperious tactics: browbeating a witness. Bulldoze connotes the leveling of all spirit of opposition: was bulldozed into hiring an unacceptable candidate. Cow implies bringing out an abject state of timorousness and often demoralization: a dog that was cowed by abuse. To bully is to intimidate through blustering, domineering, or threatening behavior: workers who were bullied into accepting a poor contract. Bludgeon suggests the use of grossly aggressive or combative methods: had to be bludgeoned into fulfilling his duties.