expel
Expel (verb) means to force someone out of a place, group, or organization, often as punishment. Example: “He was expelled from school for fighting.”
How to use expel
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo throw someone or something out by force.
Distinguish from "expend" (to spend or use up) — the words look similar but are unrelated.
Word forms
expelled past tense, expels singular
Etymology
From Latin expellere, "to drive out," from ex- ("out") + pellere ("to drive").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “expel” mean?
The word “expel” means to force someone out of a place, group, or organization, often as punishment. In plain terms, to throw someone or something out by force.
How do you pronounce “expel”?
“Expel” is pronounced ihk-SPEHL (/ɪkˈspɛl/ in IPA).
How do you use “expel” in a sentence?
Here is “expel” used in a sentence: “He was expelled from school for fighting.”
What is another word for “expel”?
Words with a similar meaning to “expel” include fordrive and turf out.
What is the opposite of “expel”?
The opposite of “expel” — its antonyms — is impel.
What part of speech is “expel”?
“Expel” is a verb.
Where does the word “expel” come from?
The word “expel” comes from Latin. From Latin expellere, "to drive out," from ex- ("out") + pellere ("to drive").
Is “expel” a common word?
“Expel” is an uncommon word in modern English.