compel

/kəmˈpɛl/

Definitions

1. verb

to force or drive someone to do something; to make someone feel that they must do something

“The police tried to compel the suspect to answer their questions.”

2. noun

a force or influence that drives or persuades people to do something

“The writer’s compelling story brought the characters to life.”

3. verb (transitive)

to make something happen or to cause something to be done

“The company’s financial struggles compelled them to downsize their workforce.”

Synonyms

  • coerce
  • force
  • induce
  • persuade

Antonyms

  • deter
  • discourage