terrorize
verb (used with object)
to fill or overcome with terror.
had terrorized
-
past perfectof terrorize.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Then Bukele decided to confront the gangs that had terrorized El Salvador for decades.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 23, 2023
Mayor Kevin Lincoln said he shed tears of relief when he was informed that the suspect who police believe had terrorized Stockton since July was taken into custody around 2 a.m.
From Seattle Times ● Oct. 16, 2022
It was fitting, really, that Giovanni Di Lorenzo — the Italian defender whom Doku had terrorized all evening — was one of those to give up his shorts in the celebrations afterward.
From New York Times ● Jul. 2, 2021
In November, a group of leaders wrote a letter to the vestry — which acts like a board of directors — and to their bishop, describing a work environment that they said had terrorized them.
From Washington Post ● Feb. 21, 2020
Justifiable fury he knew and expected when he had terrorized their pets in the old days; laughter, and sometimes nervousness—but never a crude, uncivilized reception like this.
From "The Incredible Journey" by Sheila Burnford
