Main Entry:

²cow

Function:

transitive verb

Etymology:

probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Dan kue to subdue

Date:

1581

: to destroy the resolve or courage of ; also : to bring to a state or an action by intimidation —used with into<like too many Asian armies, adept at cowing a population into feeding them — Edward Lansdale>

synonyms see intimidate

— cowed·ly \ˈkau̇(-ə)d-lē\ adverb