adjective
- intimidated or frightened into submission; made timid by threats or harsh treatment
Usage: often used to describe someone who has been bullied or dominated
Examples
- The employees were cowed by their boss’s constant yelling.
- She felt cowed after being criticized in front of everyone.
- The dog looked cowed after being scolded for chewing the shoes.
- He refused to be cowed by the bully’s threats.
- The opposition party seemed cowed by the government’s harsh response.
- The students were cowed into silence by the strict teacher.