1 (usu. foll. by to + infin.) force, constrain (compelled them to admit it).
2 bring about (an action) by force (compel submission).
3 (as compelling adj.) rousing strong interest, attention, conviction, or admiration.
4 archaic drive forcibly.
Derivatives:
compellable adj. compellingly adv.
Etymology: ME f. L compellere compuls- (as COM-, pellere drive)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.