# intimidation

/ˌɪnˌtɪmɪˈdeɪʃən/ (US) · /ɪntˌɪmɪdˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/intimidation
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

the act of making someone feel afraid or nervous so they will do what you want. It often involves threats or a scary personality.

For teachers: the action of frightening or overawing someone, especially in order to influence their behaviour or coerce them into a specific course of action.

## Examples

- The bully used intimidation to get the other children's lunch money.
- The witness reported that the gang used physical intimidation to prevent people from speaking to the police.
- Legal experts argue that the subtle atmosphere of intimidation created by the presence of armed guards may have influenced the jury's final decision.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the context of law, sports, or workplace harassment; frequently follows the verbs 'use' or 'resort to'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.