threaten
verb
[ ˈθrɛt(ə)n ]
• state one's intention to take hostile action against (someone) in retribution for something done or not done.
• "how dare you threaten me?"
Similar:
menace,
intimidate,
browbeat,
bully,
cow,
pressurize,
lean on,
terrorize,
frighten,
scare,
alarm,
make threats against,
issue threats to,
threaten to harm/kill,
• cause (someone or something) to be vulnerable or at risk; endanger.
• "a broken finger threatened his career"
Similar:
endanger,
be a danger to,
be a threat to,
menace,
imperil,
put at risk,
make vulnerable,
expose to danger,
put in jeopardy,
jeopardize,
peril,
Origin:
Old English thrēatnian ‘urge or induce, especially by using threats’, from thrēat (see threat).
