- the act of gently persuading, flattering, cajoling, etc., to influence someone to do something: There was a high-spirited stallion that no one dared to ride except Ken—after much coaxing by his companions.
- the act of manipulating something to a desired end by adroit handling or persistent effort: It took some coaxing with the wheel puller and a hammer and chisel, but the brake drum is now off.
- using gentle persuasion, flattery, etc., to influence someone to do something; cajoling: In the pool is a coaxing parent, beckoning her timid offspring forward and ready to catch him when he jumps.
