Betoil

/bɪˈtɔɪl/ verb

Definition

To exhaust or tire someone out through hard work; to cause someone to labor excessively.

Etymology

From the prefix 'be-' combined with 'toil'. The 'be-' prefix here intensifies the meaning of 'toil,' creating a verb meaning to subject someone to excessive toiling or hard labor.

Kelly Says

This word perfectly captures how English's 'be-' prefix can turn up the intensity—'toil' is hard work, but 'betoil' is being worn out BY that work, like the work is attacking you!

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