Definition

A person who teases or tempts someone by offering something desirable but keeping it out of reach.

Example

The tantalizer made everyone want the prize even more by showing it off but not letting anyone touch it.

Conversation

Did you see that new dessert shop downtown?

Yeah, I heard their pastries are a real tantalizer for anyone with a sweet tooth.

I might have to check it out this weekend!

Definitely! Just be ready to resist the tantalizer of all those delicious treats.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tantalizer → It is formed from "Tantalus" (from Greek mythology, referring to a character who was punished by being made to stand in water and food that he could never reach) and the suffix "-izer" (meaning to make or to cause). The word "tantalizer" refers to something that tempts or teases by presenting something desirable that is just out of reach.

Memory Tip

Imagine Tantalus, who was always tempted by food and water he could never have — that's why a tantalizer is something that makes you long for something just out of reach.

Visually Confused Words