Meaning & Definition of word "Compulsion"
Compulsion
/kəmˈpʌl.ʃən/
noun:
- 1. an irresistible urge to behave in a certain way, especially against one's conscious wish.
- Example: Despite knowing it was wrong, she felt a compulsion to check her emails every few minutes.
- 2. the action or state of forcing or being forced to do something.
- Example: He acted from a compulsion to help others, even at his own expense.
- 3. a strong, usually irresistible impulse to perform an act, especially one that is irrational or contrary to one’s will.
- Example: His compulsion to wash his hands repeatedly was a symptom of his anxiety disorder.
Etymology
●From Latin 'compulsio', from 'compellere' meaning 'to drive together, force, urge'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
under compulsion:
being forced to do something against one's will.
compulsive behavior:
behaviors that are repetitive and difficult to control.
compulsion to conform:
the urge to act in accordance with expected norms or behaviors.
Related Words
compulsive:
relating to an irresistible urge to behave in a certain way.
compel:
to force or push someone to do something.
Slang Meanings of compulsion
Meaning: a strong need or craving
● Example Sentence: She has a compulsion to always be the center of attention.
Meaning: a habit that is hard to break
● Example Sentence: His late-night snacking became a compulsion that he couldn't kick.