Search Dictionary
Definition of compel

compel

/kəmˈpɛl/
com · pel
Adverb:compellingly
•
Adjective:compelling
•
Past Simple:compelled
•
Past Participle:compelled
•
Present Participle:compelling
JUMP TO:

compel Lexical Profile

compel Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To force, oblige, or drive someone to do something through pressure, necessity, or authority.

Example

"The severe drought compelled many farmers in the region to switch to more resilient crops."

2

To bring about, evoke, or command (a response such as attention, respect, or admiration) irresistibly.

Example

"Her eloquent keynote address immediately compelled the undivided attention of the entire auditorium."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for compel
Antonyms
View all antonyms for compel

• Rhymes for compel

• Nearby Words

compatible
compatibly
compatriot
compel
compelling
compellingly
compendium

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Old French compellir and directly from Latin compellere ('to drive together, force'), formed from the intensive prefix com- and pellere ('to drive, push').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Compel. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/compel
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.