They were 'cowed' into silence by threats. [=they did not complain, publicly say anything, etc., because they had been threatened]
They'll be arguing about this 'till the cows come home'.
The football team was a 'cash cow' for the university.
(..) - I am. I hope you got everything you needed I think you only answered four questions. - Anastasia. - Christian. Holy cow. - Before you say anything- - You're a goddess, this is perfect. What? I just got his email, he answered every question. (..)2015 Fifty Shades of Grey