convince

con·vince

verb \kən-ˈvin(t)s\

con·vincedcon·vinc·ing

Definition of CONVINCE

transitive verb

1

obsolete a : to overcome by argument b : overpower, overcome

2

obsolete : demonstrate, prove

3

: to bring (as by argument) to belief, consent, or a course of action : persuade <convinced himself that she was all right — William Faulkner> <something I could never convince him to read — John Lahr>

— con·vinc·er noun

Examples of CONVINCE

1. He convinced me that the story was true.
2. They convinced us of their innocence.
3. I managed to convince myself that I was doing the right thing.
4. We convinced them to go along with our scheme.
5. I was unable to convince her to stay.

Origin of CONVINCE

Latin convincere to refute, convict, prove, from com- + vincere to conquer — more at victor

First Known Use: 1530

Related to CONVINCE

Synonyms: argue, bring, bring around, convert, persuade, gain, get, induce, move, prevail (on or upon), satisfy, talk (into), win (over)

Related Words: blandish, blarney, cajole, coax, entreat, exhort, fast-talk, urge, wheedle; allure, beguile, lead on, lure, seduce, snow, tempt; brainwash, overpersuade; incline, influence, move, prompt, sell, sway; attract, draw, entice, interest; chew over, converse, debate, discuss, dispute, hash (over), moot; reason (with)

Near Antonyms: deter, discourage, dissuade, unsell

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Rhymes with CONVINCE

crown prince, long since, shin splints