Wheedle

WEE-dul

Definition

(verb) To use flattery or persuasion to get something.

Example

She managed to wheedle an extra day off by complimenting her boss’ new haircut.

Fun Fact

Wheedle has a surprisingly gentle sound for a word that’s all about manipulation—albeit the charming kind. It first appeared in English in the 1600s and was associated with purring, soft coaxing, and verbal sugar-coating. Today, it’s common in social commentary, especially when someone is using charm to get their way behind the scenes.

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