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.