Tantalising is an adjective that describes something that is very APPEALING and attractive. It is often used to describe food, experiences, or other things that make people want to have them. The term is derived from the Greek myth of Tantalus, who was punished by the gods for his misdeeds by being presented with food and drink that he could never consume. This idea of tantalising someone with something they can never have is what the term has come to mean today.