unaggressive
|un-ag-gres-sive|
/ˌʌnəˈɡrɛsɪv/
not showing aggression
Etymology
'unaggressive' is formed in English from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' + the adjective 'aggressive' (from Latin/French origins).
'aggressive' comes from Late Latin 'aggressivus' (from Latin 'aggredi' / 'aggredior' meaning 'to approach, attack'), via French 'agressif' and Middle English; 'un-' was later attached in English to form 'unaggressive' meaning 'not aggressive'.
Originally related to the idea of 'approaching' or 'attacking' (Latin 'aggredi'), the sense shifted to 'having a hostile or forceful manner' (aggressive); 'unaggressive' developed as the negation meaning 'not showing such hostility or forcefulness'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not aggressive; lacking aggression or forcefulness; not inclined to attack, confront, or act combatively.
He remained unaggressive throughout the negotiation, avoiding harsh language or threats.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/14 15:37