threatens

Definition of threatensnext
present tense third-person singular of threaten
as in endangers
to remain poised to inflict harm, danger, or distress on the powerful hurricane continues to threaten the southern coastline

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 threatens Pushing a big government socialist agenda that threatens private property and puts government in control of your home? Eduardo Cuevas, USA Today, 5 Feb. 2026 The outbreak threatens to strip multiple countries of disease-free status as vaccination rates decline across the region. Los Angeles Times, 5 Feb. 2026 When Myra’s true intentions come to light, however, Billy realizes her plan threatens to consume them both. Zac Ntim, Deadline, 4 Feb. 2026 The group’s growth threatens to stoke the city’s already-raging fire. Christina Buttons, Washington Post, 3 Feb. 2026 We are told that to refuse this threatens the existence of the university. Literary Hub, 29 Jan. 2026 Continue reading … FLAG ON THE PLAY – Hall of Fame threatens to take action against vote violators amid Belichick outrage. FOXNews.com, 29 Jan. 2026 Their findings could help better understand a problem that threatens both local marine life and nearby human populations. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 29 Jan. 2026 On the other hand, by lowering rates to stimulate hiring, the Fed threatens to boost spending and worsen inflation. Max Zahn, ABC News, 28 Jan. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for threatens
endangers
Verb
  • Today’s staged raid reinforces our conviction that this investigation distorts French law, circumvents due process, and endangers free speech.
    Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 4 Feb. 2026
  • Violence, hazing or any other behavior that endangers others has no place at NAU.
    Kathy Tulumello, AZCentral.com, 1 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Threatens.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/threatens. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

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