Tantalizing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tantalizing

[หˆtรฆn.tษ™.laษช.zษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

food appeal

Tantalizing refers to something that arouses interest or desire, often in a way that is teasing or tempting. It is commonly used to describe food that looks or smells delicious, creating a strong craving or appetite.

Synonyms

alluring, enticing, inviting, tempting.

Examples of usage

  • The tantalizing aroma of fresh-baked bread filled the air.
  • Her tantalizing smile drew him closer.
  • The tantalizing dishes on the menu made it hard to choose.
  • The tantalizing images in the travel brochure sparked his wanderlust.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that people are more motivated to pursue goals that are tantalizingly unattainable, as it creates a sense of excitement.
  • The anticipation of a tantalizing reward triggers the brain's reward system, enhancing focus and drive.

Literature

  • In many novels, tantalizing elements create tension, making the reader eager to discover what happens next.
  • Authors often use tantalizing clues to engage readers, prompting them to keep turning the pages.

Pop Culture

  • Tantalizing food images in advertisements draw consumers in, promising flavors that are hard to resist.
  • Reality shows often feature tantalizing challenges that keep audiences hooked, making them want more.

Art

  • Artworks depicting tantalizing subjects often evoke strong emotions, drawing viewers' curiosity and desire for deeper understanding.
  • Many famous art pieces create tension by illustrating unattainable beauty or pleasure, appealing to viewers' imaginations.

Origin of 'tantalizing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek myth of Tantalus, who was punished by being made to stand in water and under fruit trees that were always just out of reach.
  • The root of the word has connotations of temptation and desire, reflecting how it invokes longing.

The term 'tantalizing' originates from the Greek myth of Tantalus, a figure who was punished in the afterlife by being placed in a pool of water beneath a fruit tree. Whenever he reached for the fruit, it would retreat just out of reach, and when he bent down to drink, the water would recede. Hence, 'tantalize' has come to mean to torment or tease someone with the promise of something unattainable or just out of reach. This word entered the English language in the early 16th century, deriving from the Latin 'Tantalusโ€™ which refers to the same mythological character.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,275, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.