tantalize
|tan-ta-lize|
/ˈtæn.tə.laɪz/
teasingly unattainable
Etymology
'tantalize' originates from English, specifically from the name 'Tantalus' (Greek 'Τάνταλος') from Greek mythology, where 'Tantalus' was a king punished by being made to stand in water beneath fruit that receded from his reach.
'tantalize' changed from the proper name 'Tantalus' used figuratively in English and was coined as a verb in the 17th–18th century (compare early forms such as 'tantalise'), and eventually became the standard modern English verb 'tantalize'.
Initially it referred to punishment or suffering associated with the figure 'Tantalus' (being made to suffer temptation), but over time it evolved into the current meaning of 'to tease or torment someone by offering something desirable but keeping it out of reach.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act or effect of tantalizing; teasing or tormenting by withholding what is desired (formation from the verb 'tantalize').
The tantalization of the audience by cliffhangers kept them returning each week.
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Verb 1
to torment or tease (someone) by presenting something desirable while keeping it out of reach or unobtainable.
The chef tantalized diners with the smell of fresh bread that wasn't yet ready to serve.
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/12/25 12:11