What does wheedlingly mean?
Wheedlingly is an adverb describing the act of coaxing or ingratiating oneself with someone, usually through flattery, an ingratiating tone, or persistent requests. It often implies that the behavior is calculated to gain favor rather than sincerely respectful. A person may “wheedle” another by asking repeatedly in an obliging manner, and doing so “wheedlingly” makes that manner conspicuous. The word is common in British and American English and can be serious or ironic, as when a narrator describes a child “wheedlingly” asking to stay up later. It is especially useful where ordinary “coaxingly” does not fully convey the suggestion of manipulative politeness. Because wheedlingly names not merely the method of persuasion but also its social tone, it can turn a simple description of asking or flattering into a comment on the speaker’s motives. Its best-known relatives are the verb “wheedle,” the noun “wheedling,” and the agent noun “wheedler.” While perhaps uncommon in everyday conversation, the word remains vivid in literary criticism, narrative prose, and descriptions of negotiations, family interactions, and institutional requests.
adverbIn a wheedling manner: using persistent flattery, coaxing, or ingratiating requests, often with an insincerely deferential tone.
- In a manner intended to coax or ingratiate, typically through flattering or persistently deferential behavior.
"She looked at him wheedlingly and asked if he might lend her the money again."
"The child spoke wheedlingly, hoping that a sweet smile would persuade his father to say yes."
"Rather than answer the complaint directly, the official responded wheedlingly and attempted to soften the delegation's anger."
Wheedlingly belongs to the expressive family of wheedle, an early 17th-century word whose mysterious origin contrasts with its very modern talent for flattery.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does wheedlingly come from?
Wheedlingly was formed by adding the adverbial suffix -ly to the present participle “wheedling,” itself derived from the verb “wheedle.” The base verb was attested in English in the 17th century, although its ultimate origin is uncertain. Related English forms include “wheedler” and “wheedling”; because the origin of “wheedle” is obscure, no secure cognates outside English can be confidently identified.
How wheedlingly is actually used
The word is usually literary, informal, or mildly critical in tone. It commonly suggests that the politeness is calculated to obtain favor and may be insincere.