PoliticsAugust 9, 2026

dragooned

druh-GOOND

Definition

To coerce, force, or bully someone into doing something, often through intimidation or high-pressure tactics.

Etymology

Derived from the French 'dragon,' which was a type of mounted infantry soldier in the 17th century; these soldiers were often used to harass or oppress populations, leading to the verb's modern meaning of forceful coercion.

In the news

In the context of Indonesian monetary policy, the word suggests that central bank officials might be forced or pressured by the government to align with specific political agendas rather than acting independently.

Indonesia’s monetary policy under the shadow of Prabowo's heavy hand

Read the full article ↗

East Asia Forum

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