compulsively
|com-pul-sive-ly|
C1
/kəmˈpʌlsɪvli/
(compulsive)
irresistible urge
Etymology
Etymology Information
'compulsive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'compellere,' where 'com-' meant 'together' and 'pellere' meant 'to drive.'
Historical Evolution
'compellere' 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 'driven by an irresistible urge.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that is driven by an irresistible urge or compulsion.
She checked her phone compulsively every few minutes.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/05/11 03:42