tantalize

Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for July 15, 2025 is: tantalize \TAN-tuh-lyze\ verb To tantalize someone is to cause them to feel interest or excitement about something that is very attractive, appealing, etc. // She was tantalized by the prospect of a big promotion. [See the entry >](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tantalize) Examples: "Craving a culinary adventure? Look no further than Manila Street Treats, nestled within the vibrant Tapatio Produce International Market and Shops building in Elkton. This hidden gem offers a diverse menu of Filipino and international flavors that will tantalize your taste buds." — Chester County Press (Oxford, Pennsylvania), 1 Apr. 2025 Did you know? Pity poor King [Tantalus](https://www.britannica.com/topic/Tantalus) of Lydia. The mythic monarch offended the ancient Greek gods, and was sentenced, according to Homer's [Odyssey](https://www.britannica.com/topic/Odyssey-epic-by-Homer), to suffer in Hades the following punishment: to stand neck-deep in water, beneath overhanging boughs of a tree heavily laden with ripe, juicy fruit. But though he was always hungry and thirsty, Tantalus could neither drink the water nor eat the fruit: anytime he moved to get them, they would retreat from his reach. Our word tantalize is taken from the name of the eternally tormented king.