conscript

[kuhn-skript, kon-skript]

verb (used with object)

1. to draft for military or naval service.

   Synonyms: mobilize, recruit, impress, induct

2. to compel into service.

noun

1. a recruit obtained by conscription.

adjective

1. enrolled or formed by conscription; drafted.

   a conscript soldier.

conscript

noun

1. 1. a person who is enrolled for compulsory military service

   2. ( as modifier )

      a conscript army

verb

1. (tr) to enrol (youths, civilians, etc) for compulsory military service

Other Word Forms

• conscriptable adjective
• nonconscriptable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of conscript¹

First recorded in 1525–35; from Latin conscrīptus “enrolled,” past participle of conscrībere “to enroll, enlist”; conscribe ( def. )

Word History and Origins

Origin of conscript¹

C15: from Latin conscrīptus, past participle of conscrībere to write together in a list, enrol, from scrībere to write

Example Sentences

The Uzbek despot distinguished himself by “boiling his enemies, slaughtering his poverty-stricken people when they protest, and conscripting armies of children for slave labour,” according to The Guardian.

Read more on Salon

"Those who are conscripted, they must tear them away from their mother's breast!" he exclaims.

Read more on BBC

It’s an ingeniously choreographed slapstick routine, but the bit is even funnier after Francis conscripts a plant in the audience to assist him in hoarding food.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The military's demand for conscripts to fight against the Arakan Army has imposed an additional burden.

Read more on BBC

Harbaugh, a junior high coach, was conscripted to work with the varsity team, and sometimes that was little more than babysitting.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• draftee