- Today's Word
Browbeat
BROW-beet
Definition
(verb) To intimidate or bully someone into doing something through stern or aggressive words.
Example
The boss browbeat the team into agreeing with his plan.
Fun Fact
The word browbeat originally referred to the act of literally scowling or glaring someone into submission—beating them down with your brow. It later took on verbal dimensions, often describing intimidation by authority figures like bosses, interrogators, or even overly intense coaches. You’ll find it in legal dramas and political commentary, especially when someone is pressured into compliance without physical force.
(adjective) Asserting opinions or beliefs in an arrogant, rigid, and often unyielding way.
His dogmatic approach left no room for compromise or alternative ideas.
Mid 17th century: from late Latin dogmaticus, from Greek dogmatikos, from dogma ‘opinion, tenet’.