compulsive meaning: definition, etymology and quotations

compulsive

adj

/kəmˈpʌlsɪv/

Etymology Borrowed from French compulsif, formed from Latin compulsus, past participle of compellere (“to compel”), from com- (“together”) + pellere (“to drive”).

Uncontrolled or reactive and irresistible.

Jenny is a compulsive liar—don't believe a thing she says.
Under this Act, the term "disability" shall not include—...(2) compulsive gambling, kleptomania, or pyromania; or[…]1990, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990:

1 more example

Call it impulsive, call it compulsive, call it insane / But when I'm surrounded I just can't stop1992, “Brian Wilson”, performed by Barenaked Ladies:

Having power to compel; exercising or applying compulsion.

Religion is […] inconsistent with all compulsive Motives.a. 1729, Samuel Clarke, The Doctrines of Religion reasonable to be believed:

Derived terms: anticompulsive, clothing compulsive, compulsive behaviour, compulsive decluttering, compulsive hoarder, compulsive hoarding, compulsively, compulsiveness, compulsive streak, compulsivity, noncompulsive, obsessive-compulsive, uncompulsive
Related terms: compel, compulsion, compulsory

compulsive

noun

Etymology Borrowed from French compulsif, formed from Latin compulsus, past participle of compellere (“to compel”), from com- (“together”) + pellere (“to drive”).

One who exhibits compulsive behaviours.