Compel/kəmˈpel/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Legal Authority Used to describe the power of laws or policies to demand obedience from people. Safety regulations can compel manufacturers to produce safer products. Pro Tip 2/3External Pressure Implies an external force making someone do something they may not want to. Economic pressures can compel companies to cut costs. Pro Tip 3/3Lack of Choice Highlights a situation where there is no other option but to perform the action. The flood compelled us to evacuate our home.