compulsive
|com-pul-sive|
C1
/kəmˈpʌlsɪv/
irresistible urge
Etymology
Etymology Information
'compulsive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'compulsivus,' where 'com-' meant 'together' and 'pellere' meant 'to drive.'
Historical Evolution
'compulsivus' transformed into the French word 'compulsif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'compulsive' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to drive together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'irresistible urge.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
resulting from or relating to an irresistible urge, especially one that is against one's conscious wishes.
He has a compulsive need to check his phone every few minutes.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45