deforce Meaning, Definition & Usage

De*force" transitive verb

Etymology

OF. deforcier; de- or des- (L. de or dis-) + forcier, F. forcer. See Force, v.

Wordforms

imperfect & past participle Deforced ; present participle & verbal noun Deforcing

Definitions

1. (Law) (a) To keep from the rightful owner; to withhold wrongfully the possession of, as of lands or a freehold. (b) (Scots Law) To resist the execution of the law; to oppose by force, as an officer in the execution of his duty. Burrill.