Pressure is the force of something pushing against something else. When you blow up a balloon, air pressure inside pushes against the rubber, stretching it tight. When you dive deep underwater, water pressure pushes harder and harder against your body the deeper you go. Scientists measure pressure to predict weather: high pressure usually means clear skies, while low pressure usually brings storms.

Pressure also describes the feeling of stress or urgency that makes you feel pushed to do something. When you have three big assignments due tomorrow, that's pressure. When your team is losing by one point with seconds left in the game, the player taking the last shot feels tremendous pressure.

Some people stay calm under pressure, thinking clearly even when things feel urgent or stressful. Others might crack under pressure, making mistakes they wouldn't normally make. Good preparation helps you handle pressure: if you've practiced free throws a thousand times, you're more likely to make the shot when the game depends on it.

You can also pressure someone, meaning you're pushing them to make a decision or do something. Peer pressure is when friends try to influence your choices. Healthy pressure can motivate you to work harder, but too much pressure can make it difficult to think straight or do your best work.