browbeat

[ brou-beet ]

verb (used with object)

, brow·beat, brow·beat·en, brow·beat·ing.

1. to intimidate by overbearing looks or words; bully:

   They browbeat him into agreeing.

   Synonyms: coerce, harass, badger, cow, tyrannize

browbeat

/ ˈbraʊˌbiːt /

verb

1. tr to discourage or frighten with threats or a domineering manner; intimidate

Derived Forms

• ˈbrowˌbeater, noun

Other Words From

• browbeater noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of browbeat¹

First recorded in 1575–85; brow + beat

Example Sentences

But if he comes to Israel to save it from itself or to browbeat its governing coalition, he is sure to return empty handed.

From The Daily Beast

She says the group "browbeat" Komen into reversing its decision, sparking a media storm that led Handel and many others to resign.

From The Daily Beast

The answer is not to browbeat the parties to scurry to the negotiating table.

From The Daily Beast

After parents and friends “browbeat” them about where to apply, what really influenced their decision about where to go?

From The Daily Beast

He sent the woman up to her room to pack while he expostulated with and browbeat the excited bridegroom in the carriage.

From Project Gutenberg

He proceeded to harangue and even to browbeat the Mayor, who was a very insignificant person compared with Commodore Decatur.

From Project Gutenberg

Especially as you know perfectly well, and just want to browbeat me into telling lies.

From Project Gutenberg

I now think I was wrong; but I had a feeling that the principal intended to browbeat me into an acknowledgment.

From Project Gutenberg

I have seen young men browbeat their sisters, tease them, and be continually unkind.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• badger
• bully
• coerce
• harass
• hector
• intimidate
• lean on
• oppress