impressment
noun
im·press·ment im-ˈpres-mənt 
: the act of seizing for public use or of impressing into public service
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web Jefferson’s accession to the presidency coincided with demands for higher payments and the impressment of a U.S. Navy frigate, the USS George Washington, by the Dey of Algiers as a courier vessel. 
John Yoo, National Review, 15 Jan. 2020 These distinctive tattoos were then recorded in their personal Seamen’s Protection Certificates, which were used as identification and to help stave off impressment. Jennifer Nalewicki, Smithsonian, 28 Feb. 2017
John Yoo, National Review, 15 Jan. 2020 These distinctive tattoos were then recorded in their personal Seamen’s Protection Certificates, which were used as identification and to help stave off impressment. Jennifer Nalewicki, Smithsonian, 28 Feb. 2017 Word History
First Known Use
1787, in the meaning defined above
impressments
noun
as in seizures
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
- seizures
- highjackings
- kidnapings
- abductions
- kidnappings
- hijackings
- rapes
- snatches
