Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

duress

noun

/dʊˈrɛs/

Definition

Duress refers to a situation where someone is forced to act against their will or better judgment under threat or coercion.

Examples

She signed the contract under duress and later sought to have it declared invalid.
The confession was given under duress and was not considered valid in court.

Meaning

It often implies that the person involved has been placed in a position where they feel they have no choice but to comply due to pressure or intimidation.