coerce
UK: kəʊˈɜːs | US: koʊˈɜːrs
vt. to compel or force someone to do something by using pressure, threats, or intimidation
vt. to achieve or control through oppressive means
The word coerce originates from Latin coercēre, combining co- (intensifying "together") and arcēre ("to confine or restrain"). It originally described physical confinement but evolved to imply psychological or social pressure. The modern sense reflects the idea of forcing compliance through indirect or direct constraints.
The government was accused of using laws to coerce citizens into silence.
She refused to be coerced into signing the contract against her will.
Peer pressure can coerce teenagers into making poor decisions.
The dictator coerced obedience through fear and propaganda.
Ethical leaders inspire rather than coerce their teams.