Definition

Feeling intimidated or oppressed by someone else's words or actions.

Example

After the argument, he felt browbeaten and unsure of himself.

Conversation

I noticed you seem a bit browbeaten lately at work.

Yeah, my boss has been really tough on everyone.

You shouldn't let him make you feel so browbeaten> — you're doing great.

Thanks! I just need to find a way to handle the pressure better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To be intimidated or coerced by someone who is being overly aggressive or domineering.

Example

After being browbeaten by his boss, he felt too scared to speak up in meetings.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you felt a bit browbeaten at the meeting yesterday.

Yeah, it was tough to get my point across with everyone interrupting.

That's frustrating! You shouldn't feel browbeaten when sharing your ideas.

Root Explanation

Browbeaten → It is formed from "brow" (from Old English "brūw", meaning the forehead or the upper part of the face) and "beaten" (the past participle of "beat", meaning to strike or hit). The term "browbeaten" refers to someone who has been intimidated or coerced, often through aggressive or domineering behavior, as if their brow or face has been struck down by pressure.

Memory Tip

Think of someone feeling pressured or intimidated, as if their 'brow' is being 'beaten' down by forceful words or actions.

Visually Confused Words