v. & n.
v.tr. 1 (often foll. by on) drive forcibly; impel; hasten (urged them on; urged the horses forward). 2 (often foll. by to + infin. or that + clause) encourage or entreat earnestly or persistently (urged them to go; urged them to action; urged that they should go). 3 (often foll. by on, upon) advocate (an action or argument etc.) pressingly or emphatically (to a person). 4 adduce forcefully as a reason or justification (urged the seriousness of the problem). 5 ply (a person etc.) hard with argument or entreaty.
n. 1 an urging impulse or tendency. 2 a strong desire. urger n.
[ L urgere press, drive ]