Synonyms for

Hector

Verb / ˈhektɜ: / Another word for hector — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to harass or bully someone

Synonyms & similar words

hector pusharound browbeat bully ballyrag bullyrag bossaround strongarm harass bully intimidate torment persecute oppress dominate tyrannize pressure badger pester annoy bother tease provoke agitate irritate bother nag chase

Synonyms by register

Formal

intimidate bully dominate browbeat

Informal

boss around push around lean on bully

Literary

menace overawe overbear

Antonyms

encourage praise support compliment placate soothe appease

Common collocations

  • hector someone
  • hector into doing
  • hector about something
  • hector the witness
  • hector the students
  • hector the opposition
  • hector the public

Word family

noun hectoring
verb hector

Usage note

Hector is a verb meaning to intimidate or harass someone. While it can be used formally, it often carries a connotation of aggressive or overbearing behavior.

Example sentences

  1. The boss would hector his employees to work harder.
  2. The mean kids in school would hector me every day.
  3. My little brother likes to hector me by following me around.
  4. The coach would hector the players to run faster and train harder.
  5. The politician would hector the other side during debates.

Quotes

  • It is not he who gains the exact point in dispute who scores most in controversy--but he who has shown the better temper.
  • The best way to escape from a problem is to solve it.
  • I'm not a hector, I'm a helper.

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