Dictionary.com

terrorize

[ ter-uh-rahyz ]
/ ˈtɛr əˌraɪz /
Save This Word!
See synonyms for: terrorize / terrorized / terrorizing / terrorization on Thesaurus.com
verb (used with object), ter·ror·ized, ter·ror·iz·ing.
to fill or overcome with terror.
to dominate or coerce by intimidation.
to produce widespread fear by acts of violence, as bombings.
QUIZ
TAKE JOY IN ACING THIS QUIZ ON “PRIDE” SYNONYMS
Hold your head up high as you embark on this quiz that explores some of the synonyms and meanings of “pride.”
Question 1 of 7
What does "dignity" mean?
showing self-respect
treating others with kindness
acting selfishly
TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT
Also especially British, ter·ror·ise .

Origin of terrorize

First recorded in 1815–25; terror + -ize

synonym study for terrorize

1, 2. See frighten.

OTHER WORDS FROM terrorize

ter·ror·i·za·tion, nounter·ror·iz·er, nounun·ter·ror·ized, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2022

Words related to terrorize

alarm, bludgeon, bully, coerce, frighten, horrify, intimidate, menace, oppress, scare, shock, terrify, appall, awe, browbeat, bulldoze, cow, dismay, dragoon, fright

British Dictionary definitions for terrorize

terrorize

terrorise

/ (ˈtɛrəˌraɪz) /
verb (tr)
to coerce or control by violence, fear, threats, etc
to inspire with dread; terrify

Derived forms of terrorize

terrorization or terrorisation, nounterrorizer or terroriser, noun
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
FEEDBACK