strong-arm

UK: /ˈstrɒŋɑː^rm/ US: (strông′ärm′, strong′-)

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2025

ˈstrong-ˌarm,  adj. [before a noun]

1. using, involving, or threatening the use of force or violence:
   The sheriff's strong-arm tactics won't work.

v. [~ + object]

2. to use or threaten to use violence upon:
   The mob strong-armed him into agreeing.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025

strong-arm  (strông′ärm′, strong′-), adj. 

1. using, involving, or threatening the use of physical force or violence to gain an objective:
   strong-arm methods.

v.t. 

2. to use violent methods upon;
   assault.
3. to rob by force.
4. to coerce by threats or intimidation;
   bully:
   They strong-armed me into voting for the plan.

• 1820–30, American.

Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

strong-arm noun

1. (modifier) relating to or involving physical force or violence: strong-arm tactics

verb

1. (transitive) to show violence towards