force one's hand

phrase

: to cause one to act precipitously : force one to reveal one's purpose or intention

Word History

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of force one's hand was in 1858

Rhymes for force one's hand

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Browse Nearby Words

force of will
force one's hand
force one's way
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Cite this Entry

“Force one's hand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/force%20one%27s%20hand. Accessed 27 Aug. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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