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compulsory
adjective
Synonyms
Examples of compulsory in a Sentence
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'compulsory.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
borrowed from Anglo-French & Medieval Latin; Anglo-French compulsorie "compelling, coercive," borrowed from Medieval Latin compulsōrius, derivative, with -tōrius, deverbal adjective suffix (originally forming derivatives from agent nouns ending in -tōr-, -tor) of Latin compellere "to drive together, force to go, force (to a view, course of action)" (with -s- from past participle compulsus) — more at compel
1581, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Dictionary Entries Near compulsory
Cite this Entry
“Compulsory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compulsory. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
Kids Definition
compulsory
adjectiveLegal Definition
compulsory
adjectiveMore from Merriam-Webster on compulsory
Nglish: Translation of compulsory for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of compulsory for Arabic Speakers
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