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.
tantalized
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past participleof tantalize.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof tantalize.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
tantalizeverb (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.
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
She kept fans tantalized with rumors that a penchant for long-sleeved shirts in her later years concealed two full sleeves of tattoos.
From Salon ● Aug. 25, 2026
Critics say he’s winging it, exaggerating wishes into declarations, tantalized by the bauble of a Nobel.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 24, 2025
I am far from alone in being tantalized by its promise.
From Slate ● Aug. 4, 2023
The possibility of that tantalized everyone, whether they liked football or not.
From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger
