Main Entry:

¹coax

Pronunciation:

\ˈkōks\

Function:

transitive verb

Etymology:

earlier cokes, from cokes simpleton

Date:

1581

1obsolete : fondle, pet2: 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