compel

[kuhm-pel]

verb (used with object)

compelled, compelling 

1. to force or drive, especially to a course of action.

   His disregard of the rules compels us to dismiss him.

   Synonyms: coerce, oblige, constrain

2. to secure or bring about by force.

3. to force to submit; subdue.

   Synonyms: bend, overpower

4. to overpower.

5. Archaic.,  to drive together; unite by force; herd.

verb (used without object)

compelled, compelling 

1. to use force.

2. to have a powerful and irresistible effect, influence, etc.

compel

/ kəmˈpɛl /

verb

1. to cause (someone) by force (to be or do something)

2. to obtain by force; exact

   to compel obedience

3. to overpower or subdue

4. archaic,  to herd or drive together

Other Word Forms

• compellable adjective
• compellably adverb
• compellent adjective
• compeller noun
• compellingly adverb
• precompel verb (used with object)
• uncompellable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of compel¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English compellen, from Anglo-French or directly from Latin compellere “to crowd, force,” equivalent to com- com- + pellere “to push, drive”

Word History and Origins

Origin of compel¹

C14: from Latin compellere to drive together, from com- together + pellere to drive

Synonym Study

Compel, impel agree in the idea of using physical or other force to cause something to be done. Compel means to constrain someone, in some way, to yield or to do what one wishes: to compel a recalcitrant debtor to pay; Fate compels us to face danger and trouble. Impel may mean literally to push forward, but is usually applied figuratively, meaning to provide a strong motive or incentive toward a certain end: Wind impels a ship. Curiosity impels me to ask.

Example Sentences

"BHP is confident in the highly compelling potential of its own organic growth strategy," it added.

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They include being able to give evidence remotely and not being re-investigated unless there are "compelling" reasons.

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He felt compelled to do so after taking part in one of Tommy Robinson's rallies in September.

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What most generously believed was a blip, based on the compelling evidence of Slot's first title-winning campaign last season, is now a full-blown crisis for Liverpool and their beleaguered head coach.

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It also said its case for having the deal approved was "compelling" and would comply with UK regulations, as there would be no foreign state investment or capital in the funding structure.

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Related Words

• constrain 
• enforce 
• exact 
• impel 
• necessitate 
• oblige 
• urge