terrorize

[ter-uh-rahyz] /ˈtɛr əˌraɪz/
verb (used with object), terrorized, terrorizing.
1.
to fill or overcome with terror.
2.
to dominate or coerce by intimidation.
3.
to produce widespread fear by acts of violence, as bombings.
Also, especially British, terrorise.
Origin
1815-25; terror + -ize
Related forms
terrorization, noun
terrorizer, noun
unterrorized, adjective
Synonyms
1, 2. See frighten.
British Dictionary definitions for terrorize

terrorize

/ˈtɛrəˌraɪz/
verb (transitive)
1.
to coerce or control by violence, fear, threats, etc
2.
to inspire with dread; terrify
Derived Forms
terrorization, terrorisation, noun
terrorizer, terroriser, noun
Word Origin and History for terrorize
v.

"coerce or deter by terror," 1823, from terror + -ize (also cf. terrorism). Related: Terrorized; terrorizing.