intimidating

[ in-tim-i-dey-ting ]

adjective

1. Sometimes in·tim·i·da·to·ry []. intended to frighten someone or to force or stop someone’s action through fear:

   We will not be sucked in to your macho agenda by intimidating threats of violence or seductive promises of power.

2. causing timidity, hesitancy, or anxiety, especially because of difficulty or risk; daunting:

   The day-to-day operations of the healthcare environment can be overwhelming and intimidating to the point of paralysis.

3. causing someone to feel overawed or cowed, as through force of personality or superior display of wealth, talent, rank, etc.:

   All the others had gone to Harvard or Yale, and I was just a country hick; it was intimidating, for sure.

Other Words From

• un·in·tim·i·dat·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of intimidating¹

intimidat(e) ( def ) + -ing ²( def )

Example Sentences

She also sensed that Mastin was wary of intimidating men with her accomplishments.

From Los Angeles Times

"Underneath what could be a fierce exterior, and a manner some undoubtedly found intimidating, beat a loving, kind and compassionate human heart", he added.

From BBC

Staff say the area has become dangerous and intimidating, and that despite reporting thefts to police on an almost daily basis, nothing has been done.

From BBC

Actual antagonistic and intimidating shows of force were increasing, too, if subtly.

From Salon

But I won’t lie, in the beginning, it was extremely intimidating.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aggressive
• frightening
• terrifying