The word "coaxes" is spelled with a silent "o", which can be confusing to some learners of English. The IPA phonetic transcription for "coaxes" is /kəʊksɪz/, which indicates that the "oa" diphthong is pronounced as a long "o" sound followed by a short "a" sound. The "x" is pronounced as a "ks" sound, while the final "es" is pronounced as a soft "z" sound. To remember the spelling of "coaxes", it may be helpful to think of the word "axis" and remove the "a".
Coaxes is a verb that is derived from the noun "coax" and refers to the action of persuading, manipulating, or seducing someone or something to do or achieve a desired outcome through gentle or persistent efforts. It involves using gentle words, actions, or behavior to placate, encourage, or cajole another party, usually to overcome reluctance or resistance. Coaxes often involves employing charm, sweet talking, or using other persuasive techniques to win over someone's trust, cooperation, or agreement.
Coaxes can also refer to the act of manipulating or influencing inanimate objects or animals to follow a desired course of action through patient guidance or gentle handling. It implies a delicate and considerate approach rather than force, aggression, or coercion.
The term "coaxes" can be applicable in various contexts, such as coaxing a child to eat vegetables, coaxing a friend to attend a social event, or coaxing a computer program to perform a specific operation. It suggests a soft and tactful approach, aiming to influence a situation or individual to align with the coaxer's intentions or interests without causing discomfort or antagonism.
In summary, the word "coaxes" pertains to the art of gently persuading or enticing someone or something to comply, cooperate, or perform a desired action, often utilizing charm, patience, and an understanding demeanor to achieve the desired result.
The word coaxes is derived from the noun coax which is of uncertain origin, but is believed to have originated from the Old French word caucier meaning to entice or to deceive. From there, it evolved into the Middle English word cokesen with similar meanings. Over time, the word transformed into the modern verb coax, meaning to persuade or manipulate gently or persistently.