threatenverb/ˈθɹɛt.n̩/

• 1

  To make a threat against someone; to use threats.

  • No one, however, would have anything to do with him, as Mr. Keeson's orders in those respects were very strict ; he had often threatened any one of his employés with instant dismissal if he found him in company with one of these touts.
  • "Taiwanese are very enthusiastic and love freedom and democracy, so many good international friends have come to Taiwan to support us. This is a normal and good thing, but China threatens and intimidates Taiwan," she said. "However, I would like to reassure everyone that both our government and the military are prepared, and I will definitely take care of Taiwan."
• 2

  To menace, or be dangerous.

  • The rocks threatened the ship's survival.
• 3

  To portend, or give a warning of.

  • The black clouds threatened heavy rain.
• 4

  To call into question the validity of (a belief, idea, or viewpoint); to challenge.

  • The new information threatened our original hypothesis.
• 5

  To be close to equaling or surpassing (a record, etc.); to challenge.

  • The player quickly surmised that things weren't kosher and the suddenly wiser ballplayer threatened the world record for the fifty-yard dash as he sought safety. As Reynolds dived into the van, Dietz and the other players rolled with laughter.