suasion

noun

sua·​sion ˈswā-zhən How to pronounce suasion (audio)
Synonyms of suasionnext
: the act of influencing or persuading
suasive
ˈswā-siv How to pronounce suasion (audio)
-ziv
adjective
suasively adverb
suasiveness noun

Synonyms of suasion

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Examples of suasion in a Sentence

a defense lawyer uses not only legal arguments but also moral suasion to appeal to a jury's sense of right and wrong
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In some circumstances, moral suasion can also be effective. — John Cassidy, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2026 To that end, an objection by an athlete who is a class member and who stands to lose out from the settlement’s approval will likely have suasion. — Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 7 Feb. 2025 All that remains may be the power of public suasion, but Gilead hasn’t demonstrated much sensitivity to such pressure. — Business Columnist, Los Angeles Times, 9 Apr. 2026 In this newest cover-up, Clooney repeats his film’s original failing — its nostalgic salute to the power of electronic media suasion. — Armond White, National Review, 30 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for suasion

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin suasion-, suasio, from suadēre to urge, persuade — more at sweet

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of suasion was in the 14th century

Rhymes for suasion

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Browse Nearby Words

suasible
suasion
suasive
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Cite this Entry

“Suasion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/suasion. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

suasion

noun
sua·​sion ˈswā-zhən How to pronounce suasion (audio)
: the act of influencing or persuading
moral suasion
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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