forcible

adjective

forc·​ible ˈfȯr-sə-bəl How to pronounce forcible (audio)
Synonyms of forciblenext
1
: effected by force used against opposition or resistance
2
: characterized by force, efficiency, or energy : powerful
forcibleness noun
forcibly adverb

Examples of forcible in a Sentence

the forcible removal of the rioters
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Show actor was sentenced to 30 years in prison after being found guilty of forcible rape. Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 11 Feb. 2026 To be sure, the forcible eviction of Chagossians likely violated their human rights. Sandeep Gopalan, Baltimore Sun, 3 Feb. 2026 The filing claimed that each brother has been accused of forcible rape by at least 10 different women. Liam Quinn, PEOPLE, 27 Jan. 2026 Residents weren’t happy with that advice, giving the panel an earful of complaints and demands for more forcible action against the creatures. Anita Gosch, Oc Register, 19 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for forcible

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of forcible was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Forcible.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/forcible. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

forcible

adjective
forc·​i·​ble
ˈfōr-sə-bəl
ˈfȯr-
1
: got, made, or done by force or violence
a forcible entrance
2
forcibly
-blē
adverb

Legal Definition

forcible

adjective
for·​ci·​ble ˈfȯr-sə-bəl How to pronounce forcible (audio)
: effected by force or threat of force used against opposition or resistance
a forcible felony
forcibly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on forcible

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster