tantalize
Translation
to tease, to torment, to tempt
Examples
The smell of food tantalized the hungry man.
The smell of food tantalized the hungry man.
Don't tantalize the dog with that biscuit.
Don't tantalize the dog with that biscuit.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.)) ((with sth.)) to tease or torment (sb.) with (sth.) Don't tantalize the dog with that biscuit.
Similar Words
Synonyms: tease, torment, tempt, entice
Etymology
From Tantalus, a figure in Greek mythology punished by being unable to reach fruit and water just out of his grasp.
Memory Tips
Think of the story of Tantalus, always reaching for something he can't have.