Pressure

Definition

The term "pressure" refers to the continuous physical force exerted on or against an object by something in contact with it. It can also denote a sense of stress or urgency caused by external demands.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɛʃ.ər/
• Respelling: PRESH-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɛʃ.ə/
• Respelling: PRESH-uh

Etymology

The word "pressure" originates from the Latin "pressura," meaning "action of pressing," derived from "premere," meaning "to press." It entered Middle English in the 14th century, retaining its dual meanings of physical force and psychological stress.

Derivatives

• Pressurize (verb)
• Pressurized (adjective)
• Pressuring (noun/verb)
• Pressureless (adjective)
• Repressure (verb)

Synonyms

• Force
• Stress
• Compression

Antonyms

• Relief
• Relaxation
• Ease

Usage

The word "pressure" is commonly used in scientific, social, and psychological contexts. For example: "The air pressure dropped before the storm," or "He felt pressure to meet the deadline."

Related Terms

• Force: Physical power or energy exerted on an object.
• Tension: The state of being stretched tight, often metaphorical for stress.
• Compression: The reduction in volume or size of a material under applied force.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Physical force exerted on an object: Refers to a continuous force applied by one object to another.
  • Example: "The engineer measured the water pressure in the pipe."
• Stress or urgency caused by external demands: Describes the psychological or emotional strain from high expectations or situations.
  • Example: "The students were under pressure to perform well in their exams."
• Atmospheric force: Refers to the weight of the atmosphere exerting force on the Earth's surface.
  • Example: "The storm system caused a significant drop in air pressure."

Verb

• To persuade or coerce someone to act: Refers to applying influence or urgency to get someone to do something.
  • Example: "He was pressured into signing the contract."
• To apply physical force: Refers to physically pressing or compressing something.
  • Example: "The machine pressures the material into its final shape."