deforce

verb

de·​force (ˌ)dē-ˈfȯrs How to pronounce deforce (audio)
deforced; deforcing; deforces

transitive verb

1
: to keep (property, such as land) by force from the rightful owner
2
: to eject (a person) from possession by force
deforcement noun

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French deforcer, from de- + forcer to force

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Dictionary Entries Near deforce

Cite this Entry

“Deforce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deforce. Accessed 12 Oct. 2024.

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