1. to apply force or pressure to something
Usage: British spelling
2. to try to persuade or coerce someone by using pressure or threats
Usage: British spelling
3. to maintain normal air pressure in an aircraft cabin or spacecraft
Usage: British spelling; aviation

Examples

• The engineers will pressurise the water system to test for leaks.
• The cabin crew began to pressurise the aircraft before takeoff.
• Don’t let anyone pressurise you into making a decision you’re not ready for.
• The company tried to pressurise workers into accepting lower wages.
• They had to pressurise the container to prevent contamination.
• The spacecraft’s life support system automatically pressurises the crew compartment.
• She felt pressurised by her parents to choose a particular career path.