cow

Definition of cownext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word cow different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of cow are browbeat, bulldoze, bully, and intimidate. While all these words mean "to frighten into submission," cow implies reduction to a state where the spirit is broken or all courage is lost.

not at all cowed by the odds against making it in show business

When is it sensible to use browbeat instead of cow?

The words browbeat and cow can be used in similar contexts, but browbeat implies a cowing through arrogant, scornful, or contemptuous treatment.

browbeat the witness into a contradiction

In what contexts can bulldoze take the place of cow?

While in some cases nearly identical to cow, bulldoze implies an intimidating or an overcoming of resistance usually by urgings, demands, or threats.

bulldozed the city council into approving the plan

Where would bully be a reasonable alternative to cow?

Although the words bully and cow have much in common, bully implies intimidation through threats, insults, or aggressive behavior.

bullied into giving up their lunch money

When can intimidate be used instead of cow?

While the synonyms intimidate and cow are close in meaning, intimidate implies inducing fear or a sense of inferiority into another.

intimidated by so many other bright freshmen

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of cow Bruce Springsteen was standing up to the president, while universities and law firms were being cudgeled and cowed. Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 23 Mar. 2026 The notion of cow tipping is based on the idea that cows sleep standing up. Encyclopedia Britannica, 20 Mar. 2026 The work is often difficult and disorienting, but the show’s aim is not to cow viewers into submission. Will Fenstermaker, Los Angeles Times, 3 Feb. 2026 Mother cows bond deeply with their calves. Arkansas Online, 2 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cow
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cow
Verb
  • Noblet admitted she was intimidated directing Clooney for the first time.
    Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 17 May 2026
  • In my opinion, his words were aimed at intimidating female athletes into compliance.
    Jackson Thompson OutKick, FOXNews.com, 16 May 2026
Verb
  • New York bullied Philadelphia in the second round with a combination of elite shot-making and pressure defense.
    Tony Jones, New York Times, 18 May 2026
  • Police say another mother, identified in the affidavit as Jada Hayes, remained in the parking lot after the meeting to speak with Dunmars about allegations that Dunmars’ child was bullying her own child.
    Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 16 May 2026
Verb
  • But the future Hall of Famer is coming off ACL surgery, might lack mobility, and has a receiving corps that frightens nobody.
    Troy Renck, Denver Post, 15 May 2026
  • This war has been a disaster for them, frightening away foreign investors, tourists and talent and burdening them with a future of huge new defense bills to deter Iran after the United States is gone.
    Thomas L. Friedman, Mercury News, 15 May 2026
Verb
  • Don’t let the Frito pie flavor scare you away — Salt & Straw ice cream is known for its richness, packed with as much butter-fat content as possible — similar to Melt.
    Ella Gonzales May 15, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 May 2026
  • Over-regulating could scare more insurers away; under-regulating could inflate prices even more.
    Mercury News & East Bay Times Editorial Boards, Mercury News, 15 May 2026
Verb
  • Nobody wants to be badgered for 30 days.
    Dave Knox, Forbes.com, 14 May 2026
  • Unlike during Warsh’s first stint at the Fed, the current president has been badgering the central bank for rate cuts.
    Reuters, NBC news, 13 May 2026
Verb
  • On one occasion, a suckerfish was captured disappearing into a manta ray's backside after a diver swimming nearby appeared to startle it.
    Desiree Anello, PEOPLE, 12 May 2026
  • Avoid sudden movements or noises, which can startle animals.
    Don Sweeney, Sacbee.com, 12 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Cow.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cow. Accessed 23 May. 2026.

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