compel

[ kuhm-pel ]

verb (used with object)

, com·pelled, com·pel·ling.

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)

, com·pelled, com·pel·ling.

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

Derived Forms

• comˈpeller, noun
• comˈpellable, adjective
• comˈpellably, adverb

Other Words From

• com·pel·la·ble adjective
• com·pel·la·bly adverb
• com·pel·lent adjective
• com·pel·ler noun
• com·pel·ling·ly adverb
• pre·com·pel verb (used with object) precompelled precompelling
• un·com·pel·la·ble 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

But there are plenty of stories involving stars that are just as compelling even if they haven’t gotten the same attention.

From New York Times

This includes a failure to embrace a high-dominance leadership style, consistent and bold messaging and a compelling and direct story that addressed voters’ concerns about the economy, illegal immigration, crime and other immediate quality-of-life issues.

From Salon

“Relevant, compelling and exciting is what we want Red Lobster to be for the future, and so we’re working on that now,” Adamolekun said.

From Salon

House Republicans ultimately censured Schiff for saying publicly that there was “significant” and “compelling” evidence of collusion between Trump’s campaign and the Kremlin.

From Los Angeles Times

This was a breakthrough moment for Arteaga, who felt compelled to sign up every summer thereafter.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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