compulsion
noun
Synonyms
Examples of compulsion in a Sentence
Word History
Middle English compulsion, compulsioun "coercion," borrowed from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French compulsion, borrowed from Latin compulsiōn-, compulsiō, derivative, with the suffix of verbal action -tiōn-, -tiō, of compellere "to drive together, force to go, force (to a view, course of action)" (with -s- from past participle compulsus); (sense 2) translation of German Zwang — more at compel
15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a
Phrases Containing compulsion
Dictionary Entries Near compulsion
Cite this Entry
“Compulsion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compulsion. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
compulsion
nounMedical Definition
compulsion
nounLegal Definition
compulsion
nounNote: Compulsion can make a contract voidable or be a ground for damages or restitution. Compulsion may also be a defense to a criminal act.
More from Merriam-Webster on compulsion
Nglish: Translation of compulsion for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of compulsion for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about compulsion
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