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titillate

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈtɪtɪˌleɪt/

KK: /ˈtɪtɪˌleɪt/

intransitive verb
Definition

To excite or stimulate someone in a playful or teasing way, often in a light or superficial manner.


Example

The movie was designed to titillate the audience with its thrilling plot twists.


Tense Forms

Past: titillated

Past Participle: titillated


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you seen that new show everyone is talking about?
Sloth B
Yeah, it really knows how to titillate the audience.
Sloth A
I thought so too; the plot twists are so unexpected!
Sloth B
Exactly! It keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stimulate
arouse
excite
Antonyms
bore
dull
disinterest
transitive verb
Definition

To excite someone in a pleasurable or teasing way, often by light touches or playful actions.


Example

The story was designed to titillate the readers with its suspenseful twists.


Tense Forms

Past: titillated

Past Participle: titillated


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you seen that new show that really titillates the audience?
Sloth B
Yeah, I watched the first episode last night!
Sloth A
I couldn't believe how much it titillated the viewers with its plot twists.
Root Explanation

Titillate is derived from the Latin word "titillare" (meaning to tickle or excite). The root "titillare" itself comes from "titillus" (meaning a tickling or a slight touch). The word "titillate" means to excite or stimulate someone in a playful or teasing manner, often in a sensual context.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for tickling, 'titillare', to remember that 'titillate' means to excite or tease someone playfully.

Visually Confused Words
pistillate
distillate
scintillate
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
Right? It definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stimulate
excite
tease
Antonyms
bore
dull
displease