enlist

en·list

verb \in-ˈlist, en-\

Definition of ENLIST

transitive verb

1

a : to secure the support and aid of : employ in advancing an interest <enlist all the available resources> <enlisted our help> b : to win over : attract <trying to enlist my sympathies>

2

: to engage (a person) for duty in the armed forces

intransitive verb

1

: to enroll oneself in the armed forces <will enlist for three years>

2

: to participate heartily (as in a cause, drive, or crusade)

— en·list·ee \-ˌlis-ˈtē, -ˈlis-tē\ noun

— en·list·ment \-ˈlis(t)-mənt\ noun

Examples of ENLIST

1. They're enlisting volunteers for an experiment.
2. We enlisted all available resources.
3. I enlisted the help of our neighbors.
4. We enlisted the services of a professional.
5. They enlisted several new recruits.
6. After graduating, I enlisted in the navy.
7. He enlisted in the cause of world peace.

First Known Use of ENLIST

1599