1. Threats, violence, constraints, or other action used to coerce someone into doing something against their will or better judgment
He signed the contract under duress.
Ele assinou o contrato sob coerção.
2. In law, unlawful pressure brought to bear on a person; constraint illegally or wrongfully exercised
The defendant claimed duress as a defense in court.
O réu alegou coerção como defesa em tribunal.