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Intimidated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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intimidated

[ɪnˈtɪm.ɪ.deɪ.tɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling scared

Intimidated describes a state of fear or anxiety that results from being threatened or made to feel inferior. When a person feels intimidated, they often lack confidence and may hesitate to express their thoughts or take decisive actions. This can occur in various situations, such as social interactions, workplace environments, or while facing authority figures. It is a common emotional response when individuals perceive others as more powerful or influential than themselves.

Synonyms

cowardly, daunted, frightened, overawed, threatened.

Examples of usage

  • She felt intimidated by her boss during their meeting.
  • He was intimidated by the large crowd at the concert.
  • The new student was intimidated by the older classmates.
  • I often feel intimidated when speaking in public.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Feeling intimidated can trigger the body's stress response, leading to fight-or-flight reactions.
  • Studies show that being intimidated by authority figures can limit creativity and decision-making abilities in individuals.
  • Recognizing feelings of intimidation is vital for emotional health, as it allows people to confront and manage their fears.

Pop Culture

  • In many movies, the idea of intimidation is used in scenes where a hero faces a much stronger opponent, adding drama to the story.
  • Famous characters, like Harry Potter, often feel intimidated by more powerful wizards, showcasing universal fears of inadequacy.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters often deal with feelings of intimidation when confronted by societal norms or powerful figures.
  • Authors like Shakespeare explore themes of intimidation through complex relationships, revealing deeper human emotions and struggles.

Social Dynamics

  • Intimidation can exist in various environments, including workplaces, schools, and social gatherings, impacting relationships and self-esteem.
  • Addressing intimidation in group settings can foster a more inclusive and supportive atmosphere.

Origin of 'intimidated'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'intimidare,' meaning 'to frighten', combining 'in-' (to) and 'timidus' (afraid).
  • Historically, it entered the English language in the late 15th century, highlighting how fear is a long-standing human experience.

The word 'intimidated' originates from the Latin verb 'intimidare', which means 'to frighten' or 'to scare'. This term is composed of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'to' and 'timid' which is derived from 'timidus', meaning 'fearful' or 'timid'. The English language adopted the term in the late 18th century, and it has since evolved into an adjective describing a specific state of fear or anxiety. Over time, the use of 'intimidated' has expanded beyond its strict definitions to encompass various emotional experiences related to self-doubt and apprehension in different contexts, reflecting the complexities of human interactions and personal feelings.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,270, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.