VocabDictionary

coercion

/koʊˈɜːrʒən/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The act of compelling or forcing an individual to act in an involuntary manner by use of threats, force, or intimidation.

Example Sentences:
  • The defendant argued that his confession was the result of police coercion.
  • Economic coercion was used to force the smaller nation into a trade agreement.
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “coercion” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “coercion”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'coercio', which comes from 'coercere' meaning 'to restrain' or 'to shut in'. The Latin root is composed of 'co-' (together) and 'arcere' (to enclose or ward off). It entered English via the Old French 'coercion' in the late 15th century, originally referring to the power of the law to restrain or punish.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'co-urge-ion'—when someone 'urges' you to do something with 'co-mpulsion'.

Frequently Asked Questions About “coercion

1. What is the meaning of “coercion” in English?

In English, coercion (noun) is defined as: “The act of compelling or forcing an individual to act in an involuntary manner by use of threats, force, or intimidation.”.

2. How do you use “coercion” in a sentence?

The defendant argued that his confession was the result of police coercion.

3. What are English synonyms of “coercion”?

Common synonyms include:compulsion,duress,intimidation,pressure,force

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “coercion”?

Derived from the Latin 'coercio', which comes from 'coercere' meaning 'to restrain' or 'to shut in'. The Latin root is composed of 'co-' (together) and 'arcere' (to enclose or ward off). It entered English via the Old French 'coercion' in the late 15th century, originally referring to the power of the law to restrain or punish.