force
force Lexical Profile
force Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Physical strength, power, or intense energy exerted or brought to bear upon an object or person.
"The hurricane struck the coastline with tremendous force, uprooting mature trees along the avenue."
In physics, an influence that causes a free body to undergo a change in speed, direction, or shape, mathematically defined as the product of mass and acceleration.
"Gravity is the fundamental force that keeps the planets in orbit around the sun."
Coercion, compulsion, or constraint exerted upon a person to make them act against their will.
"The negotiators hoped to resolve the dispute through diplomacy rather than by force."
An organized body of people trained and equipped for a specific purpose, especially a police department, military service, or workforce.
"After graduating from the academy, she joined the local police force as a patrol officer."
Mental, moral, or legal efficacy, validity, and persuasive power.
"The new environmental regulations will come into force at the beginning of next month."
• verb
To make a person do something against their will or by necessity, coercion, or requirement.
"Severe winter weather forced the organizers to postpone the outdoor concert until spring."
To push, drive, or break open an object or barrier by applying physical strength.
"Because the key was lost, the locksmith had to force the jammed cabinet lock open."
To produce a smile, laugh, or other expression with conscious, unnatural effort.
"Despite feeling exhausted after the long flight, he managed to force a polite smile for his hosts."
To accelerate the growth or maturity of plants, bulbs, or fruits by artificial heat, light, or temperature control.
"Gardeners often force paperwhite bulbs indoors so that they will bloom in the middle of winter."
• Rhymes for force
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in Middle English from Old French force, which derives from Vulgar Latin fortia ('strength'), ultimately from the Latin adjective fortis ('strong, brave').
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.