First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
coerce
verb co·erce \kō-ˈərs\
: to make (someone) do something by using force or threats
: to get (something) by using force or threats
co·ercedco·erc·ing
Full Definition of COERCE
transitive verb
1
: to restrain or dominate by force <religion in the past has tried to coerce the irreligious — W. R. Inge>
2
: to compel to an act or choice <was coerced into agreeing>
3
: to achieve by force or threat <coerce compliance>
— co·erc·ible \-ˈər-sə-bəl\ adjective
See coerce defined for English-language learners
See coerce defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of COERCE
Middle English cohercen, from Anglo-French *cohercer Latin coercēre, from co- + arcēre to shut up, enclose — more at ark
Related to COERCE
Synonym Discussion of COERCE
force, compel, coerce, constrain, oblige mean to make someone or something yield. force is the general term and implies the overcoming of resistance by the exertion of strength, power, or duress <forced to flee for their lives>. compel typically suggests overcoming of resistance or unwillingness by an irresistible force <compelled to admit my mistake>. coerce suggests overcoming resistance or unwillingness by actual or threatened violence or pressure <coerced into signing over the rights>. constrain suggests the effect of a force or circumstance that limits freedom of action or choice <constrained by conscience>. oblige implies the constraint of necessity, law, or duty <felt obliged to go>.
COERCE Defined for Kids
coerce
verb co·erce \kō-ˈərs\
co·ercedco·erc·ing
Learn More About COERCE
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up coerce? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).