forcible

adjective

forc·​ible ˈfȯr-sə-bəl How to pronounce forcible (audio)
1
: effected by force used against opposition or resistance
2
: characterized by force, efficiency, or energy : powerful
forcibleness noun
forcibly adverb

Examples of forcible in a Sentence

the forcible removal of the rioters
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But, notwithstanding that these are children, often Dreamers—born here and unaware of life anywhere else—forcible, legal removal from school implies wrongdoing. Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Newsweek, 4 Feb. 2025 After reviewing Thompson’s case, the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office filed multiple charges against him, including forcible rape, police said. Daniella Segura, Sacramento Bee, 23 Jan. 2025 Each brother has been accused of forcible rape by at least 10 different women, per the filing. Liam Quinn, People.com, 23 Jan. 2025 And Oliver made forcible contact after Jackson stepped out of bounds. Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 21 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for forcible 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Dictionary Entries Near forcible

Cite this Entry

“Forcible.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/forcible. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

forcible

adjective
forc·​i·​ble
ˈfōr-sə-bəl,
ˈfȯr-
1
: got, made, or done by force or violence
a forcible entrance
2
forcibly
-blē
adverb

Legal Definition

forcible

adjective
for·​ci·​ble ˈfȯr-sə-bəl How to pronounce forcible (audio)
: effected by force or threat of force used against opposition or resistance
a forcible felony
forcibly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on forcible

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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