Gently persuading or encouraging someone to do something they're hesitant about.
From Middle English 'cokes,' possibly from Old English 'cock.' The connection is unclear, but it evolved to mean patient, persistent persuasion.
Animals respond wonderfully to coaxing—you can usually get a nervous dog to come close by gently calling and using treats, which shows that persuasion works better than force! Parents and teachers use coaxing all the time to help anxious kids try new things.
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