selective service

noun

1. compulsory military service.

selective service

noun

1. (formerly) compulsory military service under which men were conscripted selectively

Word History and Origins

Origin of selective service¹

First recorded in 1919

Example Sentences

At least 46 states and territories have laws that automatically register men for Selective Service when they get a driver’s license or apply for college, which has helped the program drive a high compliance rate.

From New York Times

Mr. Harris asked young men facing the draft to refuse to register with the Selective Service or return draft cards to authorities.

From Washington Post

Selective Service, writing that he would refuse to carry it and would decline to serve if he were drafted.

From New York Times

He also voted against the Selective Service Act at a time when the German Army, fresh from a lightning conquest of Western Europe, had 4.5 million soldiers when the U.S.

From Salon

Those who were born female and have changed their gender to male are not required to register, Selective Service explains.

From Washington Times