compel

[kuhm-pel]

verb (used with object)

compelled, compelling 

1. to force or drive, especially to a course of action.

   His disregard of the rules compels us to dismiss him.

   Synonyms: coerce, oblige, constrain

2. to secure or bring about by force.

3. to force to submit; subdue.

   Synonyms: bend, overpower

4. to overpower.

5. Archaic.,  to drive together; unite by force; herd.

verb (used without object)

compelled, compelling 

1. to use force.

2. to have a powerful and irresistible effect, influence, etc.

compel

/ kəmˈpɛl /

verb

1. to cause (someone) by force (to be or do something)

2. to obtain by force; exact

   to compel obedience

3. to overpower or subdue

4. archaic,  to herd or drive together

Other Word Forms

• compellable adjective
• compellably adverb
• compellent adjective
• compeller noun
• compellingly adverb
• precompel verb (used with object)
• uncompellable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of compel¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English compellen, from Anglo-French or directly from Latin compellere “to crowd, force,” equivalent to com- com- + pellere “to push, drive”

Word History and Origins

Origin of compel¹

C14: from Latin compellere to drive together, from com- together + pellere to drive

Synonym Study

Compel, impel agree in the idea of using physical or other force to cause something to be done. Compel means to constrain someone, in some way, to yield or to do what one wishes: to compel a recalcitrant debtor to pay; Fate compels us to face danger and trouble. Impel may mean literally to push forward, but is usually applied figuratively, meaning to provide a strong motive or incentive toward a certain end: Wind impels a ship. Curiosity impels me to ask.

Example Sentences

Two members of the House, Republican Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Democrat Ro Khanna of California, are trying to force a vote on compelling the justice department to release all documents in the case.

From BBC

I felt myself losing interest in the story as the series progressed because their ensuing assignments, setbacks and interpersonal trajectories weren’t all that compelling.

From Los Angeles Times

For a consistently compelling actor who has somehow never been nominated for an Oscar, it’s a reminder of just how overdue that recognition might be.

From Los Angeles Times

Perhaps the most compelling Premier League storyline is the fast-accelerating American takeover of soccer/football and what it tells us about the globalization of American culture.

From Los Angeles Times

“We need to make a compelling economic vision … our first, second and third priority,” Khanna said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• constrain 
• enforce 
• exact 
• impel 
• necessitate 
• oblige 
• urge