coerce

[koh-urs]

verb (used with object)

coerced, coercing 

1. to compel by force, intimidation, or authority, especially without regard for individual desire or volition.

   They coerced him into signing the document.

2. to bring about through the use of force or other forms of compulsion; exact.

   to coerce obedience.

3. to dominate or control, especially by exploiting fear, anxiety, etc..

   The state is based on successfully coercing the individual.

coerce

/ kəʊˈɜːs /

verb

1. (tr) to compel or restrain by force or authority without regard to individual wishes or desires

Other Word Forms

• coercer noun
• coercible adjective
• noncoercible adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of coerce¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Latin coercēre “to hold in, restrain,” equivalent to co- co- + -ercēre, combining form of arcēre “to keep in, keep away,” akin to arca ark

Word History and Origins

Origin of coerce¹

C17: from Latin coercēre to confine, restrain, from co- together + arcēre to enclose

Example Sentences

Of course, it wasn’t that simple, and eventually the stream of women coming forward to allege that they were coerced, tricked, and even threatened into performing for the camera brought Francis’ empire down.

From Salon

The complaint goes on to call Fox News’ practices “anticompetitive” and alleges that the media giant “coerces” television providers, making them agree to terms that prevent them from carrying competing networks like Newsmax.

From Salon

The lawsuit, filed in a Florida federal court, accuses Fox News of using its market power to coerce TV providers to restrict competing right-leaning channels.

From BBC

Cid's lawyer spoke at the session on Tuesday and stressed that his client had not been coerced into striking the plea deal, thereby rebutting accusations that his testimony had been extracted under pressure.

From BBC

During the trial, the jury heard prison intelligence logs recorded how Morgan had a history of threatening "grave violence", including death threats, to coerce fellow inmates and prison staff, dating back to 2011.

From BBC

Related Words

• browbeat 
• bully 
• intimidate 
• repress 
• strong-arm 
• suppress 
• terrorize