enforce
pronunciation
How to pronounce enforce in British English:
UK [ɪnˈfɔːs]
How to pronounce enforce in American English:
US [ɪnˈfɔːrs]
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- Verb:
- ensure observance of laws and rules
- compel to behave in a certain way
Word Origin
- enforce (v.)
- mid-14c., "to drive by physical force; to try, attempt, strive; to fortify, strengthen a place;" late 14c. as "exert force, compel; make stronger, reinforce; strengthen an argument; grow stronger, become violent," from Old French enforcier "strengthen, reinforce; use force (on), offer violence (to); oppress; violate, rape" (12c.) or a native formation from en- (1) "make, put in" + force (n.). Meaning "compel obedience to (a law, etc.) is from 1640s. Related: Enforced; enforcing.
Example
- 1. Police strictly enforce these speed limits with hefty fines .
- 2. Enforce healthy bedtimes -- for you and the kids .
- 3. Britain has comprehensive laws that it fails to enforce .
- 4. A new european data protection board will enforce the regime .
- 5. Many state constitutions also enforce repayment of debt .