tantalize

[ tan-tl-ahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, tan·ta·lized, tan·ta·liz·ing.

1. to torment with, or as if with, the sight of something desired but out of reach; tease by arousing expectations that are repeatedly disappointed.

   Synonyms: frustrate, tempt, taunt, provoke

   Antonyms: satisfy

tantalize

/ ˈtæntəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. tr to tease or make frustrated, as by tormenting with the sight of something greatly desired but inaccessible

Derived Forms

• ˈtantaˌlizing, adjective
• ˈtantaˌlizingly, adverb
• ˌtantaliˈzation, noun
• ˈtantaˌlizer, noun

Other Words From

• tanta·li·zation noun
• tanta·lizer noun
• un·tanta·lized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of tantalize¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; Tantal(us) + -ize

Word History and Origins

Origin of tantalize¹

C16: from the punishment of Tantalus

Example Sentences

The findings also cast the humble single-cell creatures in a new, more tantalizing light: They are not merely molecular machines packed in microscopic bodies, but they are also agents that can learn.

From Science Daily

It was absolutely tantalizing, came together in under a half hour and called for only a handful of ingredients.

From Salon

It was a typically tantalizing New York night owned by — sorry, it must be said — Los Angeles, Los Angeles.

From Los Angeles Times

You are buying a myth, albeit a tantalizing one, that the chain restaurants that are so ubiquitous across the country are actually good for us, the real heroes of the American food industry.

From Los Angeles Times

As for the highly unlikely — but also highly tantalizing — idea of Ohtani taking the mound in a playoff game?

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• annoy
• baffle
• entice
• fascinate
• frustrate
• titillate
• torment