impel

[ im-pel ]

verb (used with object)

, im·pelled, im·pel·ling.

1. to drive or urge forward; press on; incite or constrain to action.

   Synonyms: actuate

   Antonyms: restrain

2. to drive or cause to move onward; propel; impart motion to.

impel

/ ɪmˈpɛl /

verb

1. to urge or force (a person) to an action; constrain or motivate
2. to push, drive, or force into motion

Derived Forms

• imˈpellent, nounadjective

Other Words From

• unim·pelled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of impel¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English impellen, from Latin impellere “to strike against, set in motion,” from im- im- ¹ + pellere “to strike, move”; pulse ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of impel¹

C15: from Latin impellere to push against, drive forward, from im- (in) + pellere to drive, push, strike

Synonym Study

See compel.

Example Sentences

The rules of Washington would normally impel a person at Esper’s level to seek cover for his actions.

From Salon

At Lawson’s urging, they refused bail, which impelled hundreds of other students to join the crusade against segregated interstate travel.

From Los Angeles Times

"I suspect that institutional caution on their part will impel them towards not upholding the disqualification of Donald Trump," Prof Issacharoff said.

From BBC

“It was the experience in that space and the vastness of it and the way his art lived in space,” said Wenders, addressing what impelled him to jump-start the film after a 2019 visit.

From Los Angeles Times

So, his persona impels him to the default position which is that the United States is going to support Israel.

From Salon

Related Words

• compel
• induce
• oblige