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Definitions

threaten

[thret-n] / ˈθrɛt n /
VERB
warn, pressure
Synonyms
STRONGEST
intimidate menace scare
STRONG
abuse admonish augur blackmail bluster browbeat bully caution comminate cow enforce forebode forewarn fulminate growl portend presage pressurize scowl snarl spook terrorize torment
WEAK
flex muscles look daggers make threat push around shake fist at walk heavy
Antonyms
STRONGEST
assist help
STRONG
approve commend compliment defend flatter please praise
WEAK
alleviate guard protect relieve save
VERB
endanger
Synonyms
STRONGEST
imperil jeopardize warn
STRONG
advance approach brewing forebode foreshadow frighten impend loom overhang portend presage
WEAK
be dangerous be gathering be imminent be in the air be in the offing be on the horizon come on hang over put at risk put in jeopardy
Antonyms
WEAK
alleviate guard help protect relieve save

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Iran’s military has been significantly degraded, but it still retains substantial firepower with which it can threaten any ships trying to block the strait.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

He did not beat his chest and threaten to rain death on his Confederate adversaries.

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

And in rain, the muddy dirt roads threaten to swallow your car.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

But those against say large-scale mining could alter the flow of rivers coming from the Andes mountains and threaten water security for millions.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

He would threaten chimps older and stronger than he was, because he knew that if they dared to retaliate, his mother, his sister, or one of his brothers would rush to help him.

From "My Life with the Chimpanzees" by Jane Goodall

Vocabulary lists containing threaten

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