tantalize
definition
to tease or torment by offering something desirable but keeping it out of reach
example
The aroma of freshly baked cookies would tantalize the children as they waited impatiently for dessert.
synonyms
teasetormententice
word origin — The word 'tantalize' originates from the name Tantalus, a figure in Greek mythology who was punished by being made to stand in a pool of water beneath a fruit tree, always tantalized by sweet fruit and cool water that remained just out of reach.