impel | Definition of impel

Synonyms and Antonyms of impel

1 to set or keep in motion

gasoline impels a car's engine

Synonyms of impel

actuate, drive, move, propel, work

Words Related to impel

activate, motivate, provoke

abet, ferment, foment, incite, raise, stir (up), whip (up)

set off, trigger, trip

arouse, excite, fire (up), galvanize, inflame (also enflame), inspire, instigate, rouse, stimulate

Near Antonyms of impel

bridle, check, constrain, contain, control, curb, inhibit, regulate, rein (in), restrain

2 to cause (a person) to give in to pressure

I felt impelled to tell the truth, however painful it might be

Synonyms of impel

blackjack, coerce, compel, constrain, dragoon, drive, force, impress, make, muscle, obligate, oblige, press, pressure, sandbag

Words Related to impel

browbeat, bulldoze, bully, cow, hector, intimidate

blackmail, high-pressure, menace, shame, terrorize, threaten

badger, harass, hound

Phrases Synonymous with impel

twist one's arm

Near Antonyms of impel

allow, let, permit

argue, convince, induce, move, persuade, prevail (on or upon), satisfy, talk (into), win (over)