capitulate

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/kəˈpɪtʃəˌleɪt/
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To stop resisting and accept another side’s demands.
Practice using capitulate in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • The city capitulated when food ran out.
  • The defenders refused to capitulate.
  • She would not capitulate to the threats.
  • After weeks of pressure, the board capitulated.
  • If we capitulate now, the demands will grow.

Similar words

yield
surrender
give in
submit

Meanings

Yield after resistance

verb
conflict
formal
To give in to an opponent or demand, especially after trying for some time to resist.

Examples

  • The defenders refused to capitulate.
  • After weeks of pressure, the board capitulated.
  • She would not capitulate to the threats.
  • The city capitulated when food ran out.
  • If we capitulate now, the demands will grow.

Similar words

surrender
yield
give in
submit

Etymology

From French capituler, from a medieval Latin verb for drawing up terms under headings. It developed from negotiating terms into accepting defeat.

FAQ

What does capitulate mean?

To capitulate is to give in after resisting.

When is capitulate used?

It can describe an army, a negotiating team, or a person under pressure.

How does capitulate differ from surrender?

Surrender is broad, while capitulate often suggests accepting terms after a struggle.

How is capitulate used in a sentence?

After weeks of pressure, the board capitulated.

Is capitulate formal?

Yes. Capitulate is a formal verb.

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