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Browbeaten: meaning, definitions and examples

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browbeaten

 

[ ˈbraʊˌbiːtn ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

emotionally abused

The term 'browbeaten' describes a state of being intimidated or coerced into submission, often through aggressive or domineering behavior. It implies a sense of being psychologically subdued, resulting in a loss of confidence or assertiveness. People who are browbeaten may feel powerless, anxious, or incapable of standing up for themselves, often due to repeated verbal bullying or criticism. This word is commonly used to describe individuals who have been subjected to excessive pressure or manipulation by another individual or group.

Synonyms

dominated, intimidated, oppressed, subdued.

Examples of usage

  • His browbeaten demeanor was evident in the way he responded to questions.
  • After years of browbeaten treatment from her boss, she finally decided to resign.
  • The browbeaten employee hardly spoke up during meetings.
  • In the relationship, one partner felt browbeaten into silence.

Translations

Translations of the word "browbeaten" in other languages:

🇵🇹 intimidado

🇮🇳 डराना

🇩🇪 eingeschüchtert

🇮🇩 ditakutkan

🇺🇦 заляканий

🇵🇱 zastraszony

🇯🇵 脅迫された (kyōhaku sareta)

🇫🇷 intimidé

🇪🇸 amedrentado

🇹🇷 korkutulmuş

🇰🇷 위협받은 (wiheob-badeun)

🇸🇦 مُخيف

🇨🇿 zastrašený

🇸🇰 zastrašený

🇨🇳 被威胁的 (bèi wēixié de)

🇸🇮 strašen

🇮🇸 ógnar

🇰🇿 қорқытылған

🇬🇪 შიშით შეწუხებული (shishit shechukhebi)

🇦🇿 təzyiq edilən

🇲🇽 amedrentado

Etymology

The word 'browbeaten' originates from the early 17th century, combining 'brow,' referring to the forehead or face, and 'beaten,' from the verb 'beat.' The 'brow' in this context symbolizes the expression of fear or subjugation, where one might furrow their brow in response to intimidation. The term was likely influenced by the earlier verb 'browbeat,' which means to intimidate or bully someone into submission with stern words or behavior. This reflects a broader historical context where physical posture, particularly the facial expression, was associated with psychological states. Over time, 'browbeaten' evolved to encompass an emotional and psychological connotation, denoting not only a physical stance but an overall state of being overwhelmed by fear or aggression. The usage of the term has persisted into modern English, often applied in discussions about psychological abuse, workplace dynamics, and personal relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,029, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.