Meaning & Definition of word "Pressure"

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.