Definition

The act of using spoken persuasion or public appeals to influence others, especially in business or labor contexts.

Example

The president's jawboning aimed to encourage companies to invest more in renewable energy.

Conversation

Did you hear the president's latest speech on the economy?

Yeah, he was really focused on jawboning to the business leaders.

I think it's interesting how he tries to influence their decisions.

Right! It shows how much power words can have in politics.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To influence or persuade someone through public statements or pressure, often in a political or economic context.

Example

The government is jawboning companies to lower their prices during the economic crisis.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the meeting where they were jawboning about the budget cuts?

Yeah, I heard it got pretty heated.

I can't believe they think jawboning will actually change anything.

Root Explanation

Jawboning is formed from "jaw" (from Old English *ceaf*, meaning the lower part of the face) and "-boning" (derived from the verb "to bone", meaning to exert pressure or influence). The term refers to the act of persuading or influencing someone through talk, often in a forceful or insistent manner.

Memory Tip

Think of using your 'jaw' to talk and persuade someone, which is what 'jawboning' means — to influence through conversation.

Visually Confused Words