Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of enforcement
1425–75; late Middle English < Anglo-French, Old French. See enforce, -ment
Explanation
Enforcement is when someone in a position of power makes sure you follow the rules, whether it’s a police officer pulling over a speeding car, or your brother catching you cheating at checkers. Most people benefit from the enforcement of laws, because it prevents criminals from taking advantage of others. You can see the word force inside enforcement, and it usually takes a little force to keep people from breaking rules. Enforcement may not make you a popular person – think of a hall monitor – but it does make for an obedient and organized life.
Vocabulary lists containing enforcement
Stay Strong: Forc and Fort
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Bush's Address on 9/11
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Holes
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Law enforcement officials also point out that any type of modification to e-bikes might not just be dangerous, but can also transform the e-bike into a motorcycle or moped under California law.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026
Xi pushed to strengthen diplomatic, law enforcement and military ties, according to Beijing's state media.
From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026
Kalshi said that in the first quarter of this year, it made more than 20 referrals to law enforcement of possibly illegal trading activity after opening more than 150 of its own investigations.
From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026
The ruling is the latest legal challenge to the NCAA’s enforcement ability, following previous injunctions for other college athletes.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026
Millions of dollars in federal aid have been offered to state and local law enforcement agencies willing to wage the war.
From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
