Langimage
English

compulsiveness

|com-pul-sive-ness|

C1

/kəmˈpʌlsɪvnəs/

(compulsive)

irresistible urge

Base FormAdverb
compulsivecompulsively
Etymology
Etymology Information

'compulsiveness' originates from the Latin word 'compellere,' where 'com-' meant 'together' and 'pellere' meant 'to drive.'

Historical Evolution

'compellere' transformed into the Old 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 'having an irresistible urge.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality or state of being compulsive.

His compulsiveness led him to check the door lock multiple times.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/05/11 04:37