coercion
noun
co·er·cion
kō-ˈər-zhən 
-shən
: the act, process, or power of coercing
They used coercion to obtain the confession.
Examples of coercion in a Sentence
a promise obtained by coercion is never binding
Recent Examples on the Web
Elections were still not free and fair, but there were not systematically high rates of violence or coercion.
—
Yonatan Morse, The Conversation, 19 Dec. 2025
The report also found that wage deductions were systematically used to discipline workers for things like refusing overtime, making mistakes or violating discretionary rules—a practice the BHRC said is indicative of an environment where economic coercion is routine.
—Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 17 Dec. 2025
Beijing will continue to use incremental tactics and economic coercion against neighbors to pressure them to decouple or distance themselves from Washington.
—Jennifer Lind, Foreign Affairs, 12 Dec. 2025
Even with external backing, the junta’s reliance on ethnic divisions, coercion, and border partnerships is likely to perpetuate instability and humanitarian suffering through 2026.
—Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for coercion
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Yonatan Morse, The Conversation, 19 Dec. 2025
The report also found that wage deductions were systematically used to discipline workers for things like refusing overtime, making mistakes or violating discretionary rules—a practice the BHRC said is indicative of an environment where economic coercion is routine.
—Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 17 Dec. 2025
Beijing will continue to use incremental tactics and economic coercion against neighbors to pressure them to decouple or distance themselves from Washington.
—Jennifer Lind, Foreign Affairs, 12 Dec. 2025
Even with external backing, the junta’s reliance on ethnic divisions, coercion, and border partnerships is likely to perpetuate instability and humanitarian suffering through 2026.
—Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for coercion
Cite this Entry
“Coercion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coercion. Accessed 24 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationLegal Definition
coercion
noun
co·er·cion
kō-ˈər-zhən, -shən
: the use of express or implied threats of violence or reprisal (as discharge from employment) or other intimidating behavior that puts a person in immediate fear of the consequences in order to compel that person to act against his or her will
also
: the defense that one acted under coercion see also defense, duress compare undue influence
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