intimidation

[ in-tim-i-dey-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of inducing fear or awe:

   The true motive of most street harassment is intimidation.

2. the act or process of attempting to force or deter an action by inducing fear:

   She spoke passionately about the violence and intimidation suffered by African Americans in Mississippi seeking to register to vote.

Word History and Origins

Origin of intimidation¹

intimid(ate) ( def ) + -ation ( def )

Example Sentences

Some say they receive intimidation and abuse if they try to apprehend thieves.

From BBC

At a recent Board of Trustees meeting, around a dozen Black students expressed their concerns about the rally, saying they were subjected to harassment, intimidation and racial slurs.

From Los Angeles Times

In particular, Mr Rangarajan said he was concerned at unacceptable levels of intimidation and harassment directed at women and candidates from ethnic minority backgrounds.

From BBC

Abuse and intimidation can have a significant impact on candidates’ campaign activity, the report added, with 66% of female respondents saying they avoided campaigning alone due to a fear of abuse.

From BBC

Safeguards were tightened following the murders of MPs Jo Cox in 2016 and Sir David Amess in 2021 and anyone convicted of intimidation offences relating to elections can be banned from holding elected office for five years.

From BBC

Related Words

• coercion