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Definition of enlist

enlist

/ɪnˈlɪst/
en · list
Adjective:enlisted
•
Past Simple:enlisted
•
Past Participle:enlisted
•
Present Participle:enlisting
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enlist Lexical Profile

enlist Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To enroll or be enrolled in the armed services, either voluntarily or by conscription.

Example

"After graduating from high school, he decided to enlist in the navy to learn engineering skills."

2

To engage a person or secure their support and cooperation for a specific cause, project, or undertaking.

Example

"The community organizers worked hard to enlist the support of local business owners for the charity drive."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for enlist

• Rhymes for enlist

• Nearby Words

enlightening
enlighteningly
enlightenment
enlist
enlistee
enlistment
enliven

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 17th century from the prefix en- ('put into') and list, modeled after the Dutch inlijsten ('to put on a list or roll').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Enlist. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/enlist
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