Obsessive
/əbˈsesɪv/
Definitions
2 meaningsPreoccupied with or tending to think about something too much or constantly.
/əbˈsesɪv/
Thinking about something or someone too much or constantly.
He has an obsessive interest in collecting stamps.
💡 Simply: When you can't stop thinking about something, like a game or a person, and it's starting to bother you or get in the way of other things, that's being obsessive. It's like having a song stuck in your head, but with a whole topic.
👶 For kids: When you keep thinking about something all the time, even when you don't want to, that's obsessive.
More Examples
She developed obsessive cleaning habits due to anxiety.
The detective became obsessive in his pursuit of the truth.
How It's Used
"Obsessive thoughts can interfere with daily life."
"His obsessive behavior drove his girlfriend away."
Relating to or caused by an obsession.
/əbˈsesɪv/
Related to or caused by an obsession.
He displays obsessive tendencies with his collection.
💡 Simply: When something is 'obsessive,' it's connected to those thoughts and feelings that you can't let go of. Think of the behaviors that stem from a big obsession.
👶 For kids: When something is about always thinking about one thing, that's obsessive.
More Examples
Obsessive thoughts can lead to significant distress.
The doctor diagnosed an obsessive condition.
How It's Used
"Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common mental illness."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
From Late Latin *obsessivus*, from *obsessus*, past participle of *obsidere* 'to besiege, haunt'.
The term 'obsessive' and related forms have existed since the late 19th century, particularly in psychological contexts, as study of the mind developed.
Memory tip
Imagine an octopus (ob-) squeezing (-sess) your mind. You can't stop thinking about it.
Word Origin
"to besiege, haunt"