Main Entry: ¹coax

Pronunciation: \ˈkōks\

Function: transitive verb

Etymology: earlier cokes, from cokes simpleton

Date: 1581

1 obsolete : fondle, pet
2 : to influence or gently urge by caressing or flattering : wheedle <coaxed him into going>
3 : to draw, gain, or persuade by means of gentle urging or flattery <unable to coax an answer out of him>
4 : to manipulate with great perseverance and usually with considerable effort toward a desired state or activity <coax a fire to burn>

synonyms see cajole