adjective
Uncommon
compulsive
kuhm-PUHL-sihv
Compulsive (adjective) means resulting from an urge that is difficult or impossible to resist. Example: “His compulsive checking of email became a real problem at work.”
adjective
1
Resulting from an urge that is difficult or impossible to resist.
"His compulsive checking of email became a real problem at work."
"She's a compulsive liar."
How to use compulsive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes a behaviour driven by an urge someone struggles to control.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "compulsory" — compulsive describes an uncontrollable urge; compulsory means required by rule.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
compulsive behaviour
compulsive liar
compulsive gambler
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Word forms
- Plural
- compulsives
- Comparative
- more compulsive
- Superlative
- most compulsive
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
His _____ checking of email became a real problem at work.
Etymology
From French compulsif, from Latin compulsus, past participle of compellere, "to compel."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for compulsive
See all rhymes for compulsive →Frequently asked questions
What does “compulsive” mean?
The word “compulsive” means resulting from an urge that is difficult or impossible to resist. In plain terms, describes a behaviour driven by an urge someone struggles to control.
How do you pronounce “compulsive”?
“Compulsive” is pronounced kuhm-PUHL-sihv (/kəmˈpʌlsɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “compulsive” in a sentence?
Here is “compulsive” used in a sentence: “His compulsive checking of email became a real problem at work.”
What part of speech is “compulsive”?
“Compulsive” is an adjective.
Where does the word “compulsive” come from?
The word “compulsive” comes from Latin. From French compulsif, from Latin compulsus, past participle of compellere, "to compel.".
Is “compulsive” a common word?
“Compulsive” is an uncommon word in modern English.
