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strong-arm - 3 dictionary results

strong-arm

[strawng-ahrm, strong-]
–adjective
1. using, involving, or threatening the use of physical force or violence to gain an objective: strong-arm methods.
–verb (used with object)
2. to use violent methods upon; assault.
3. to rob by force.
4. to coerce by threats or intimidation; bully: They strong-armed me into voting for the plan.

Origin:
1820–30, Americanism
strong-arm   (strông'ärm')
adj.  Using physical force or coercion: strong-arm tactics.
tr.v.   strong-armed, strong-arm·ing, strong-arms
  1. To use physical force or coercion against.
  2. To rob by force.

strong-arm  (adj.)
"using physical force," 1897, from noun phrase (1606), from strong (adj.) + arm (n.).
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