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enlist

verb en·list \ in-ˈlist , en- \
|Updated on: 20 Jun 2018

Definition of enlist

enlisted; enlisting; enlists
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)
—

enlistee

play \in-ˌli-ˈstē, en-, -ˈli-stē\ noun
—

enlistment

play \in-ˈlis(t)-mənt, en-\ noun

See enlist defined for English-language learners

See enlist defined for kids

Examples of enlist in a Sentence

  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.

Recent Examples of enlist from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'enlist.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of enlist

1599

in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

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ENLIST Defined for English Language Learners

enlist

verb

Definition of enlist for English Language Learners

  • : to get the support and help of (someone or something)

  • : to get (help, support, sympathy, etc.) from someone

  • : to sign up (a person) for duty in the army, navy, etc.

ENLIST Defined for Kids

enlist

verb en·list \ in-ˈlist \

Definition of enlist for Students

enlisted; enlisting
1 : to join the armed forces as a volunteer
2 : to get the help of
  • Let's enlist our family in painting the house.
—

enlistment

\-mənt\ noun

Learn More about enlist

  1. Spanish Central: Translation of enlist Nglish: Translation of enlist for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of enlist for Arabic speakers

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