Urge

Definition

Urge refers to a strong desire or impulse to act, or the act of earnestly encouraging or persuading someone to do something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɜːrdʒ/
• Respelling: URJ

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɜːdʒ/
• Respelling: URJ

Etymology

The word "urge" originates from Latin "urgēre," meaning "to press hard" or "drive forward." It entered Middle English through Old French "urger," retaining its sense of pressing or pushing toward action.

Derivatives

• Urgent (adjective)
• Urging (noun/verb)
• Urged (verb, past tense)
• Urger (noun)
• Urgingly (adverb)

Synonyms

• Compel
• Encourage
• Impulse

Antonyms

• Deter
• Discourage
• Restrain

Usage

The noun "urge" is used to describe a strong feeling or impulse, as in "He felt an urge to speak up." The verb "urge" means to encourage or persuade someone, as in "She urged him to finish his assignment."

Related Terms

• Impulse: A sudden strong desire to act.
• Motivation: The reason or reasons for acting or behaving in a particular way.
• Encouragement: The act of giving support or confidence.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A strong desire or impulse: Refers to a compelling internal drive to act or behave in a certain way.
  • Example: "He had an uncontrollable urge to laugh during the meeting."

Verb

• To encourage someone to act: Refers to pressing or persuading someone toward an action.
  • Example: "The teacher urged the students to study hard for the exam."
• To advocate or recommend strongly: Refers to earnestly pressing for a specific course of action.
  • Example: "She urged caution in making the decision."