First Known Use: circa 1555
Dictionary
1urge
verb \ˈərj\
: to ask people to do or support (something) in a way that shows that you believe it is very important
: to try to persuade (someone) in a serious way to do something
: to use force or pressure to move (someone or something) in a particular direction or at a particular speed
urgedurg·ing
Full Definition of URGE
transitive verb
1
: to present, advocate, or demand earnestly or pressingly <his conviction was upheld on a theory never urged at his … trial — Leon Friedman>
2
: to undertake the accomplishment of with energy, swiftness, or enthusiasm <urge the attack>
3
4
: to force or impel in an indicated direction or into motion or greater speed <the dog urged the sheep toward the gate>
intransitive verb
: to declare, advance, or press earnestly a statement, argument, charge, or claim <urged for the adoption of the proposal>
— urg·er noun
See urge defined for English-language learners
See urge defined for kids
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Origin of URGE
Latin urgēre to press, push, entreat — more at wreak
2urge
noun
: a strong need or desire to have or do something
Full Definition of URGE
1
: the act or process of urging
2
: a force or impulse that urges; especially : a continuing impulse toward an activity or goal
See urge defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of URGE
circa 1618
Related to URGE
Other Psychology Terms
URGE Defined for Kids
1urge
verb \ˈərj\
urgedurg·ing
Definition of URGE for Kids
1
: to try to get (something) accepted : argue in favor of <She's always urging reform.>
2
: to try to convince <He urged his guests to stay.>
2urge
noun
Definition of URGE for Kids
: a strong desire <She had the urge to laugh.>
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