Definition/Meaning of impressment

• English - Noun: impressment ( plural impressments ) The act of seizing for public use; impressing into public service . 1988 , James McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom , Oxford 2004, p . 833: A month later the governors of six more states , meeting in conference , enigmatically urged the impressment of slaves for “the public service as may be required .”
• English - Etymology: From impress +‎ -ment .
• English - Pronunciation: ( UK ) IPA (key) : /ɪmˈpɹɛsmənt/