ballyrag
Bully with words
Ballyrag means to bully, badger, or harass someone with persistent verbal abuse or intimidation.
The word is old-fashioned and uncommon: The foreman ballyragged the workers until they quit.
Also spelled bullyrag.
Intimidate through pressure
- domineerRule through intimidation
- tyrannizeRule by oppression
- overbearSubdue by superiority
- bulldozeDemolish using heavy equipment
boss · coerce · strong-arm · cow · overawe · subdue · push around · lord over
browbeat
Intimidate through pressure
bulldoze · boss · coerce · strong-arm · cow · overawe · subdue · push around · lord over · ride roughshod
badger
Nag persistently
hassle · plague · beset · chivvy · importune · needle · harry · persecute · pick on · dog
berate
Criticize severely and lengthily
- upbraidCriticize harshly, verbally
- chastiseReprimand severely for wrongdoing
- rebukeExpress sharp disapproval
reprimand · castigate · lambaste · chide · reproach · dress down · tell off · harangue · lecture · tongue-lash
tease
Mock playfully
- mockScornful imitation or fake
- ridiculeContemptuous mocking treatment
- heckleHarass a performer verbally
jeer · goad · provoke · bait · razz · rib · twit · kid · roast · josh