What does wheedle mean?
To wheedle means to persuade someone by using flattering, affectionate, or otherwise coaxing language. The word commonly describes efforts to obtain a favor, concession, gift, or agreement through gentle social pressure: one might wheedle a parent into allowing a late night out or wheedle a customer into a discount. Its connotation is usually mildly negative or ironic, implying that the speaker is being deliberately ingratiating or that the request requires special handling. The related noun “wheedler” denotes a person who uses such tactics, while “wheedling” names the activity. Though closely associated with flattery, the term does not necessarily imply deception, and in gentler contexts it can simply describe persistent, affectionate persuasion. Wheedle remains familiar and idiomatic in both British and American English.
verbTo persuade someone to do or give something by using flattery, endearments, or other coaxing words.
- To use flattery, endearments, or coaxing talk in order to persuade someone.
- To obtain or induce something from someone by such persuasive or flattering talk.
"The diplomat attempted to wheedle concessions from the foreign minister."
"She knew how to wheedle her father into taking her to the circus."
"The salesperson spent ten minutes trying to wheedle a larger discount from the customer."
To wheedle is to win someone over with the gentlest possible pressure: a smile, a compliment, or a carefully chosen request.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does wheedle come from?
The word dates from early 17th-century English, when it was used for coaxing or flattering persuasion. Its deeper origin is uncertain, and no securely established cognate or source language can be confidently identified. It subsequently developed the more specific modern sense of using smooth or flattering talk to obtain something from someone.
Related word forms
How wheedle is actually used
The verb is common in British and American English and is often transitive, especially in the patterns “wheedle someone into something” and “wheedle something from someone.” It generally carries a mildly negative or ironic connotation, suggesting that the persuasion is calculated, manipulative, or excessively flattering.
Easily confused with wheedle
A wheel is a circular object that rotates, whereas to wheedle is to use persuasive or flattering talk to obtain something.