What does it mean to "wheedle"?

To "wheedle" means to influence or persuade someone through gentle urging, flattery, or coaxing. This verb suggests a soft, sometimes insincere approach where the person tries to charm or sweet-talk another individual into doing something or agreeing with them. It reflects a form of manipulation that relies on charm rather than force or aggressive tactics.

The context behind the other options helps clarify this definition. While aggressive argumentation implies a confrontational style, and urgency and pressure denote a more forceful influence, "wheedling" embraces a subtle, persuasive charm. Ignoring someone, on the other hand, clearly goes against the idea of influencing or persuading. Therefore, the essence of "wheedle" lies in its emphasis on gentle persuasion rather than more aggressive methods.