Meaning & Definition of word "Pressure"
to
Pressure
/ˈprɛʃər/
noun:
- 1. The continuous physical force exerted on or against an object by something in contact with it.
- Example: The pressure of the water caused the dam to crack.
- 2. The use of persuasion or intimidation to make someone do something.
- Example: He felt a lot of pressure from his peers to conform.
- 3. The feeling of stress or tension caused by demanding circumstances.
- Example: She works well under pressure, often meeting tight deadlines.
verb:
- 1. To attempt to persuade or coerce someone into doing something.
- Example: The manager pressured the team to increase their sales.
- 2. To exert force upon an object.
- Example: He pressed the button with pressure to start the machine.
Etymology
From Middle English, from Old French pression, from Latin pressio.
Common Phrases and Expressions
blood pressure:
The pressure exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels.
peer pressure:
The influence that a group exerts on its members to behave in ways that conform to group norms.
pressure cooker:
A sealed pot that cooks food more quickly than conventional cooking methods due to increased pressure.
Related Words
compress:
To flatten or reduce in size by applying pressure.
inflate:
To fill something with air or gas to increase pressure.
stress:
A state of mental or emotional strain or tension.
Slang Meanings of pressure
Meaning: To put the squeeze on someone.
Example Sentence: He was really trying to pressure me into making a decision.
Meaning: Pressure to conform to social norms.
Example Sentence: There’s a lot of pressure these days to look a certain way.