wheedle

[ˈwiːdəl]

wheedle Definition

to persuade someone to do something or to give you something by saying nice things.

Using wheedle: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "wheedle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He tried to wheedle some money out of his parents.

  • Example

    She wheedled her way into the party.

  • Example

    The salesman wheedled me into buying the more expensive product.

  • Example

    He managed to wheedle an invitation to the exclusive event.

wheedle Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for wheedle

Phrases with wheedle

  • to persuade someone to give you something they do not want to give

    Example

    She managed to wheedle a few extra days out of her boss for the project deadline.

  • wheedle one's way

    to use flattery or persuasion to gain entry or access to something

    Example

    He wheedled his way into the VIP section of the concert.

  • to gradually reduce the resistance or reluctance of someone through persuasion or flattery

    Example

    She wheedled down his objections until he finally agreed to help her.

Origins of wheedle

from Dutch 'verwedelen', meaning 'to deal in a friendly way'

📌

Summary: wheedle in Brief

The verb 'wheedle' [ˈwiːdəl] means to persuade someone to do something or to give you something by saying nice things. It is often used in contexts where flattery or coaxing is involved, as in 'He tried to wheedle some money out of his parents.' 'Wheedle' also appears in phrases like 'wheedle out of,' which means to persuade someone to give you something they do not want to give.