What does wheedle mean?
The verb wheedle means to use clever, flattering, or insincere talk to persuade someone to do something. It often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying that the person using wheedle is being manipulative or deceitful. Wheedle can be used in various contexts, from everyday conversations to more formal situations, and is often employed to describe the act of coaxing or cajoling someone into doing something they might not want to do. The word is commonly used in British and US English, and its meaning has remained relatively consistent over time.
verbTo try to persuade someone to do something by talking to them in a clever and flattering way.
- to flatter or cajole someone into doing something
- to use clever and insincere talk to achieve something
"She wheedled her parents into letting her go to the party."
"He wheedled his boss into giving him a raise."
"The salesperson wheedled the customer into buying the expensive model."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of wheedle
The word wheedle is believed to have originated in the mid-17th century, likely derived from the Old English word 'wīdian', which means 'to deceive' or 'to wheedle'. It has since evolved to encompass a range of meanings related to clever and insincere talk.
How wheedle is actually used
Often used in a slightly negative way to imply that someone is being insincere or manipulative.