Meaning of compulsion in English

Table of contents

Noun
compulsion
Etymology
late Middle English: via Old French from late Latin compulsio(n-), from compellere‘to drive, force’ (see compel)
Definitions
1. an urge to do or say something that might be better left undone or unsaid
2. an irrational motive for performing trivial or repetitive actions against your will
3. using force to cause something
Examples
- « though pressed into rugby under compulsion I began to enjoy the game »
- « they didn't have to use coercion »
Derived terms

Famous quotes

« Prayer is commission. Out of the quietness with God, power is generated that turns the spiritual machinery of the world. When you pray, you begin to feel the sense of being sent, that the divine compulsion is upon you. »
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« Knowledge which is acquired under compulsion obtains no hold on the mind. »
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