Strongarms

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. Using coercive tactics to achieve a desired outcome
2. Employing force or intimidation to influence someone’s actions or decisions
3. Utilizing physical power or aggressive persuasion to obtain compliance or agreement

Etymology: "Strongarms" is the third-person singular present form of the verb "strongarm," so its history belongs to that base word. "Strongarm" is a compound of "strong" and "arm," and it developed as a verb meaning to force someone into doing something, typically through pressure, threats or intimidation. The image behind it is physical: a person who uses brute strength, rather than persuasion, to get their way.

Synonyms: intimidates, coerces, bully, force, threatens

Antonyms: persuades, encourages, reassures, comforts, supports