frustrate

frustrate

verb

Definition of FRUSTRATE

1

to prevent from achieving a goal <a multitude of conflicting opinions frustrated me in my attempt to find a computer that best suits my needs>

Synonyms baffle, balk, beat, checkmate, discomfit, foil, thwart

Related Words bar, block, clog, encumber, fetter, hamper, handicap, hinder, hobble, hold back, impede, inhibit, interfere (with), manacle, obstruct, shackle, tie up, trammel; arrest, check, halt, set back, short-circuit, stall, stop; avert, forestall, obviate, preclude, prevent; negate, neutralize, nullify; counteract, offset; conquer, defeat, overcome

Near Antonyms abet, aid, assist; ease, facilitate, smooth

Antonyms advance, cultivate, encourage, forward, foster, further, nurture, promote

2

to lessen the courage or confidence of <challenge the math student, but don't frustrate him or her with overly difficult problems>

Synonyms chill, daunt, demoralize, dishearten, dismay, dispirit, frustrate, unman, unnerve

Related Words browbeat, bully, cow, intimidate; depress, sadden, weigh; afflict, try; damp, dampen, deaden; distress, trouble; bother, irk, vex, worry; debilitate, enfeeble, undermine, weaken; frighten, horrify, scare

Near Antonyms buoy (up), cheer, gladden; animate, enliven, invigorate; enforce, fortify, reinforce (also reenforce), strengthen; assure, reassure; boost, energize, excite, galvanize, inspire, lift, provoke, quicken, rally, stimulate, stir

Antonyms embolden, encourage, hearten, nerve, steel