selective service

American  

noun

1. compulsory military service.

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selective service British  

noun

1. (formerly) compulsory military service under which men were conscripted selectively

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Etymology

Origin of selective service

First recorded in 1919

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

selective service

A vast majority of US states and territories also automatically register men for selective service when driver's licenses are issued.

From BBC ● Apr. 9, 2026

That same year, then-President Ronald Reagan, who had initially campaigned against the reinstated selective service, decided he would keep it.

From Slate ● Mar. 25, 2026

In addition to strength, stamina and ergonomic shoes, a job with the postal service requires a clean record, two years of safe driving, and a selective service registration.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 24, 2022

I was sent to wait out the remainder of the day before being taken back to my local selective service board and returning home to Southern Maryland.

From Washington Post ● Mar. 5, 2022

July 20—Drawing at Washington of names for first army under selective service.

From Kelly Miller's History of the World War for Human Rights by Kelly Miller

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