tantalize

especially British, tan·ta·lise

[tan-tl-ahyz]

verb (used with object)

tantalized, tantalizing 

1. to torment with, or as if with, the sight of something desired but out of reach; tease by arousing expectations that are repeatedly disappointed.

   Synonyms: frustrate, tempt, taunt, provoke
   Antonyms: satisfy

tantalize

/ ˈtæntəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to tease or make frustrated, as by tormenting with the sight of something greatly desired but inaccessible

Other Word Forms

• tantalizing adjective
• tantalizingly adverb
• tantalization noun
• tantalizer noun
• untantalized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of tantalize¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; Tantal(us) + -ize

Word History and Origins

Origin of tantalize¹

C16: from the punishment of _Tantalus

Example Sentences

Every now and then, there were flashes of his tantalizing potential.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

At that point, Sasaki had lost his tantalizing velocity, hardly even threatening 100 mph since his adrenaline-fueled debut in Tokyo back in March.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It’s a number that’s both tantalizing and fraught, depending on your political perspective.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Baldwin held these romantic relationships in tantalizing suspension, his love affairs caught between the poles of desire and intimacy, the heat of passion and long-term commitment.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Over a five-inning start that included eight strikeouts, no walks and a whole bunch of flailing swings by the Rays, the veteran left-hander flashed his two-time Cy Young Award-winning stuff and tantalizing late-season potential.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• annoy 
• baffle 
• entice 
• fascinate 
• frustrate 
• titillate 
• torment