Meaning of the word compulsion in English

What does compulsion mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

compulsion

US /kəmˈpʌl.ʃən/
UK /kəmˈpʌl.ʃən/
"compulsion" picture

Noun

1.

an irresistible urge to behave in a certain way, especially against one's conscious wishes

Example:
He felt a compulsion to check the door lock one more time.
Gambling can become a compulsion that is hard to break.
2.

the action or state of forcing or being forced to do something; constraint

Example:
The payment was made under compulsion.
There is no compulsion to take part in the survey.