tantalize
verb (used with object)
to torment with, or as if with, the sight of something desired but out of reach; tease by arousing expectations that are repeatedly disappointed.
has tantalized
-
present perfectof tantalize (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
A multiday music festival on the beach is a SoCal dream that has tantalized and vexed concert promoters for generations.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 2, 2026
The idea has tantalized urban planners and utopian dreamers for centuries.
From New York Times ● Aug. 31, 2023
In between his first two interceptions Lock made the kind of play that has tantalized Carroll at times in the preseason, lofting a perfect pass to Hart for a 35-yard TD.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 26, 2022
The idea of a universal coronavirus vaccine has tantalized public health experts for years.
From Salon ● Oct. 18, 2021
Richards — who has tantalized between repeated injury woes throughout his career — posted double-digit strikeouts for the first time since setting a career high with 11 on April 21, 2018, with the Angels.
From Fox News ● Apr. 28, 2021
