induce (someone) to do something through reasoning or argument:it wasn’t easy, but I persuaded him to do the right thing
[with object] cause (someone) to believe something, especially after a sustained effort; convince:health boards were finally persuaded of the desirability of psychiatric units [with object and clause]:he did everything he could to persuade the police that he was the robber
(of a situation or event) provide a sound reason for (someone) to do something:the cost of the manor’s restoration persuaded them to take in guests
