cajole
UK: kəˈdʒəʊl | US: kəˈdʒoʊl
vt. to persuade someone to do something through flattery, coaxing, or gentle insistence
vt. to deceive or mislead with soothing words
The word "cajole" originates from French cajoler, meaning "to chatter like a bird in a cage" or "to coax." The morpheme caj likely imitates the sound of persistent, sweet-talking speech, while -ole is a diminutive suffix, softening the action. Over time, the term evolved to describe the act of persuading someone with flattery or gentle insistence, often with a hint of deception.
She managed to cajole her brother into lending her the car.
The salesman tried to cajole the customer into buying the expensive model.
Politicians often cajole voters with promises they can’t keep.
He cajoled his way out of trouble with a charming smile.
The teacher cajoled the shy student into participating in the debate.