stare down

Idioms  

1. Cause someone to waver or give in by or as if by being stared at. For example, Insisting on a better room, he stared down the manager until he got it. This expression alludes to staring at someone without being the first to blink or lower one's gaze. [Mid-1800s]

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Example Sentences

He’s standing with his arms crossed, staring down at Dad and Aunt Melissa like they’re criminals.

From Literature

She stared down at her list again with an expression of deep pondering and some displeasure.

From Literature

He rubbed his shoulder in relief when Tiamat settled on top of the door to stare down at Mary Lou.

From Literature

Tūtū stares down at her phone as if it’s an alien speaking in gibberish.

From Literature

Mal stood with her back against a wall, winded, trying to catch her breath, staring down at the first boy.

From Literature