v.
Pronunciation: k ə - ' j ō l
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form: ca · joled ; ca · jol · ing
Etymology: French cajoler
Date: 1630
1 a : to persuade with flattery or gentle urging especially in the face of reluctance : COAX <had to cajole them into going> b : to obtain from someone by gentle persuasion < cajole ed money from his parents>
2 : to deceive with soothing words or false promises
– ca · jole · ment \ - ' j ō l-m ə nt \ noun
– ca · jol · er noun
– ca · jol · ery \ - ' j ō -l ə -r ē \ noun
synonyms CAJOLE , COAX , SOFT-SOAP , BLANDISH , WHEEDLE mean to influence or persuade by pleasing words or actions. CAJOLE suggests the deliberate use of flattery to persuade in the face of reluctance or reasonable objections < cajoled him into cheating on the final exam>. COAX implies gentle and persistent words or actions employed to produce a desired effect < coaxed the cat out of the tree>. SOFT-SOAP refers to using smooth and somewhat insincere talk usually for personal gain <politicians soft-soaping eligible voters>. BLANDISH implies a more open desire to win a person over by effusive praise and affectionate actions <legislators blandished with promises of support>. WHEEDLE suggests more strongly than cajole the use of seductive appeal or artful words in persuading <hucksters wheedling her life's savings out of her>.