strong-arm
[ strawng-ahrm, strong- ]
/ ˈstrɔŋˌɑrm, ˈstrɒŋ- /
adjective
using, involving, or threatening the use of physical force or violence to gain an objective: strong-arm methods.
verb (used with object)
to use violent methods upon; assault.
to rob by force.
to coerce by threats or intimidation; bully: They strong-armed me into voting for the plan.
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Origin of strong-arm
An Americanism dating back to 1820–30
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for strong-arm
British Dictionary definitions for strong-arm
strong-arm
/ informal /
noun
(modifier) relating to or involving physical force or violencestrong-arm tactics
verb
(tr) to show violence towards
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Word Origin and History for strong-arm
strong-arm
"using physical force," 1897, from noun phrase (c.1600), from strong (adj.) + arm (n.).
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper