ˈterəˌrīz verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Usage: see -ize
Etymology: terror (I) + -ize
transitive verb
1. : to fill with terror or anxiety : scare
2. : to coerce by threat or violence
terrorize the members of that union into helpless submission — T.W.Arnold
intransitive verb
: to excite fear : rule by intimidation
Synonyms: see frighten