Efforce

/ɪˈfɔrs/ verb

Definition

To force out; to gain by force; to compel or exert force upon something.

Etymology

From Old French efforcer, from ex- (out) + force (strength). Used in Middle English and Early Modern English, sometimes archaic for 'to enforce' or 'force open.'

Kelly Says

This word is almost a ghost of 'enforce,' but they had different meanings once—'efforce' meant the physical act of forcing something out, while 'enforce' meant imposing rules, though the lines blurred over centuries.

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