verb
Uncommon
expel
ihk-SPEHL
Expel (verb) means to force someone out of a place, group, or organization, often as punishment. Example: “He was expelled from school for fighting.”
verb
1
To force someone out of a place, group, or organization, often as punishment.
"He was expelled from school for fighting."
"The country expelled several diplomats after the scandal."
2
To push or drive something out with force.
"The volcano expelled clouds of ash into the sky."
How to use expel
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo throw someone or something out by force.
Common mistake
Distinguish from "expend" (to spend or use up) — the words look similar but are unrelated.
Common pairings
expel a student
expel gas
expel from the country
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- expels
- Past tense
- expelled
Etymology
From Latin expellere, "to drive out," from ex- ("out") + pellere ("to drive").
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.
