the force applied to a unit area of surface; measured in pascals (SI unit) or in dynes (cgs unit); the compressed gas exerts an increased pressure

[ Syn: pressure level , force per unit area ]

a force that compels; the public brought pressure to bear on the government'

the act of pressing; the exertion of pressure; he gave the button a press; he used pressure to stop the bleeding; at the pressing of a button

[ Syn: press , pressing ]

the state of demanding notice or attention; the insistence of their hunger; the press of business matters

[ Syn: imperativeness , insistence , insistency , press ]

the somatic sensation that results from applying force to an area of skin; the sensitivity of his skin to pressure and temperature was normal

[ Syn: pressure sensation ]

an oppressive condition of physical or mental or social or economic distress

the pressure exerted by the atmosphere

[ Syn: atmospheric pressure , air pressure ]

to cause to do through pressure or necessity, by physical, moral or intellectual means :She forced him to take a job in the city; He squeezed her for information

[ Syn: coerce , hale , squeeze , force ]

exert pressure on someone through threats

[ Syn: blackmail , blackjack ]