What does "tantalize" most nearly mean?

The term "tantalize" refers to the act of teasing or tormenting someone by presenting something desirable while keeping it out of reach, creating a sense of longing or frustration. It often implies a playful yet frustrating manipulation of desires or emotions, which aligns closely with the meaning of "vex." To vex someone is to cause annoyance, frustration, or worry, which captures the essence of tantalizing someone, as they may feel a mix of desire and irritation due to the unattainable nature of what they want.

In contrast, the other choices represent different meanings. For instance, obliterate means to destroy completely, which has no relation to teasing or frustrating someone. Assuage refers to calming or easing someone’s feelings or pains, which is opposite to the concept of tantalizing. Elevate means to lift or raise to a higher position, which does not align with the idea of frustration or teasing. Therefore, the connection between "tantalize" and "vex" is what makes the selection of that term appropriate.