Hector Meaning in English
word
Definition
To talk to someone in a loud, aggressive, or bossy way in order to control or intimidate them. It usually suggests repeated bullying speech rather than a single comment.
Usage & Nuances
Fairly formal and not very common in everyday conversation. Often used in writing, news, or serious speech to describe bullying, overbearing behavior. Common pattern: 'hector someone into doing something.' Stronger and more hostile than simply 'criticize' or 'nag'.
Example Sentences
The coach did not hector the players after the loss.
basic
She tried to hector her brother into cleaning the room.
basic
Stop hectoring me—I already said yes.
basic
He kept hectoring the staff about tiny mistakes until everyone went quiet.
natural
The article accused the host of hectoring guests instead of listening to them.
natural
You can't hector people into agreeing with you; that just pushes them away.
natural