adj
aggressive
uh-GREHS-ihv
adj
1
Ready or likely to attack or confront; hostile.
"The dog became aggressive when strangers approached."
"He was known for his aggressive negotiating style."
2
Bold, forceful, and determined in pursuing a goal.
"The company launched an aggressive marketing campaign."
"Doctors recommended aggressive treatment for the infection."
3
Spreading or growing rapidly, especially of a disease.
"It was diagnosed as an aggressive form of cancer."
"The weed is an aggressive invasive species."
How to Use Aggressive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHostile and attacking, or (in a more neutral sense) forceful and bold.
Common pairings
aggressive behavior
aggressive campaign
aggressively priced
aggressive tumor
Word Forms
more aggressive comparative, aggressives plural, most aggressive superlative
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Etymology
From "aggress" (from Latin aggredior, "to attack") + the adjective-forming suffix "-ive."