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threaten

/θrɛtən/ verb · British & US
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What does threaten mean?

verb

To say or do something that makes someone feel that they will be harmed or attacked, or to make a threat. To give someone a warning that something unpleasant or frightening will happen.

Example

"The company threatened to lay off employees if they didn't agree to the new contract."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymologically related

Synonyms for threaten

Antonyms of threaten

Rhymes with threaten