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.
The Palestinians and much of the international community have rejected such plans, viewing them as forcible expulsion that could violate international law. Melanie Lidman, Los Angeles Times, 5 June 2025 He was sentenced to twelve years for forcible rape as a second striker. Harry Harris, Mercury News, 29 May 2025 The proposal has been universally rejected by Palestinians, who view it as forcible displacement from their homeland. Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 31 Mar. 2025 Obando pleaded no contest and was sentenced to 12 years and eight months in prison on felony charges of kidnapping, forcible oral copulation and forcible rape, officials said. Paloma Chavez, Sacramento Bee, 11 Feb. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Forcible.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/forcible. Accessed 10 Jun. 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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