Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

psych-out

verb
/saɪk aʊt/
Definition
To confuse or intimidate someone mentally, often to gain an advantage.
Examples
  • He tried to psych out his opponent before the big match.
  • By making her doubt her abilities, he managed to psych her out during the competition.
Meaning
Psych-out refers to the act of psychologically unsettling an opponent or competitor, affecting their performance by eroding their confidence.
Synonyms
  • intimidate
  • unsettle
  • daunt
  • confound