Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913

Tantalize

Tantalize , transitive verb

[From Tantalus: compare French tantaliser.]

To tease or torment by presenting some good to the view and exciting desire, but continually frustrating the expectations by keeping that good out of reach; to tease; to torment.
Thy vain desires, at strife Within themselves, have tantalized thy life. — Dryden