intimidate

/ɪnˈtɪmɪdeɪt/verb

To frighten someone, often with threats, so that they feel nervous or back down.

Example sentence

“The bigger team tried to intimidate their opponents before the game.”

The passive is common: 'don't be intimidated'. 'Intimidating' describes whatever causes the fear, from bosses to blank pages.

Related words

intrepidBrave and adventurous; showing no fear.interviewAn official face-to-face meeting held to judge whether a candidate or applicant is suitable.intricateMade up of many small, complicated details.interveneTo step into a situation in order to change it or stop something from happening.intrigueSecret plotting or a hidden scheme designed to achieve a goal by covert means.interpretTo explain what something means, or to put spoken words into a language listeners can understand; also used of dreams, signs, and behavior.