browbeat
|brow-beat|
C1
/ˈbraʊˌbiːt/
intimidate
Etymology
Etymology Information
'browbeat' originates from the combination of 'brow' and 'beat', where 'brow' refers to the forehead and 'beat' implies striking or hitting.
Historical Evolution
'browbeat' changed from the literal sense of 'beating the brow' to its modern figurative meaning of intimidating someone.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to strike the forehead', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to intimidate or bully someone'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to intimidate or bully someone into doing something through stern or abusive words.
The manager tried to browbeat the employees into working overtime.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/03/07 08:52