Dictionary entry

Deforce

Webster's Dictionary 1913

De‐force″ (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p.Deforced (?); p. pr. & vb. n.Deforcing.] [OF. deforcier; de- or des- (L. de or dis-) + forcier, F. forcer. See Force, v.] (Law) (a) To keep from the rightful owner; to withhold wrongfully the possession of, as of lands or a freehold. (b) (Scots Law) To resist the execution of the law; to oppose by force, as an officer in the execution of his duty. Burrill.