pressure

(noun) the force applied to a unit area of surface; measured in pascals (SI unit) or in dynes (cgs unit). Synonyms: pressure level, force per unit area. Examples: "The compressed gas exerts an increased pressure."

(noun) a force that compels. Examples: "The public brought pressure to bear on the government."

(noun) the act of pressing; the exertion of pressure. Synonyms: press, pressing. Examples: "He gave the button a press." "He used pressure to stop the bleeding." "At the pressing of a button."

(noun) the state of demanding notice or attention. Synonyms: imperativeness, insistence, insistency, press. Examples: "The insistence of their hunger." "The press of business matters."

(noun) the somatic sensation that results from applying force to an area of skin. Synonyms: pressure sensation. Examples: "The sensitivity of his skin to pressure and temperature was normal."

(noun) an oppressive condition of physical or mental or social or economic distress.

(noun) the pressure exerted by the atmosphere. Synonyms: atmospheric pressure, air pressure.

(verb) to cause to do through pressure or necessity, by physical, moral or intellectual means :"She forced him to take a job in the city". Synonyms: coerce, hale, squeeze, force. Examples: "He squeezed her for information."

(verb) exert pressure on someone through threats. Synonyms: blackmail, blackjack.