tantalizing
UK: ˈtæntəlaɪzɪŋ | US: ˈtæntəlaɪzɪŋ
adj. 1. Teasingly desirable or appealing but out of reach.
adj. 2. Provocatively attractive or enticing.
tantalizing = tantal<from Tantalus> + ize<verb suffix> + ing<adjective suffix>
- tantal (from Greek Tantalus, a mythological figure punished by eternal hunger/thirst despite being surrounded by unreachable food/water)
- ize (verb-forming suffix meaning "to make or cause to be")
- ing (adjective suffix indicating a present participle or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word derives from the myth of Tantalus, a figure in Greek mythology condemned to stand in a pool of water beneath fruit-laden branches that receded whenever he tried to eat or drink. The verb tantalize (to torment with something unattainable) was coined in the 17th century, and tantalizing emerged as its adjective form, capturing the essence of teasing desire. The morphemes reflect a direct link to the myth, with -ize and -ing adding grammatical function.
The aroma of freshly baked bread was tantalizing to the hungry hikers.
She gave him a tantalizing smile but walked away without speaking.
The preview offered a tantalizing glimpse of the upcoming film.
The job offer was tantalizing, but the salary was too low.
The unsolved mystery remained a tantalizing challenge for detectives.