Thesaurus

badger

Q: How is the word 'badger' distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of badger are bait , chivy , heckle , hector , and hound . While all these words mean "to harass by efforts to break down," badger implies pestering so as to drive a person to confusion or frenzy. // badgered her father for a car

Q: When could 'bait' be used to replace 'badger'?

The words bait and badger are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, bait implies wanton cruelty or delight in persecuting a helpless victim. // baited the chained dog

Q: When might 'chivy' be a better fit than 'badger'?

The words chivy and badger can be used in similar contexts, but chivy suggests persecution by teasing or nagging. // chivied the new student mercilessly

Q: When is it sensible to use 'heckle' instead of 'badger'?

The synonyms heckle and badger are sometimes interchangeable, but heckle implies persistent annoying or belligerent interruptions of a speaker. // drunks heckled the stand-up comic

Q: In what contexts can 'hector' take the place of 'badger'?

Although the words hector and badger have much in common, hector carries an implication of bullying and domineering. // football players hectored by their coach

Q: When would 'hound' be a good substitute for 'badger'?

The meanings of hound and badger largely overlap; however, hound implies unrelenting pursuit and harassing. // hounded by creditors

verb

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Synonyms of badger

(Entry 1 of 2)

to subject (someone) to constant scoldings and sharp reminders

He's always badgering me about the dishes.

Synonyms & Near Synonyms for badger

hassle,
heckle

badger

noun

Synonyms of badger (Entry 2 of 2)

the pelt or fur of a badger

The boutique features a variety of scarfs, including badger, fox, and ermine.

Synonyms & Near Synonyms for badger

fleece,
mouton

Frequently Asked Questions About badger

How is the word badger distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of badger are bait, chivy, heckle, hector, and hound. While all these words mean "to harass by efforts to break down," badger implies pestering so as to drive a person to confusion or frenzy.

badgered her father for a car

When could bait be used to replace badger?

The words bait and badger are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, bait implies wanton cruelty or delight in persecuting a helpless victim.

baited the chained dog