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

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.

From 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.

From Los Angeles Times

The band's official website described Eddie as "a ghoulish yet undeniably handsome and mysterious figure whose tantalizing image would go on to feature on every album and countless t-shirts".

From BBC

That his tantalizing talent was matched by a preternatural aptitude.

From Los Angeles Times

With his fastball sitting around 95 mph, and a tantalizing combination of sliders and changeups keeping Padres hitters off balance, Sheehan gave up just one run while striking out six batters in his big-league return.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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