VocabDictionary

addictive

/əˈdɪk.tɪv/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Causing or likely to cause physical or psychological dependence; extremely pleasurable and habit-forming.

Example Sentences:
  • Many modern video games are designed to be highly addictive.
  • Nicotine is an extremely addictive substance found in tobacco products.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “addictive”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'addictus' (assigned, devoted, or bound to a master), the past participle of 'addicere', formed from 'ad-' (to) + 'dicere' (to pronounce, judge). Historically used in Roman law to describe a debtor legally bound over to a creditor, the meaning evolved in English to denote any compulsive psychological or physiological dependence.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of something you add to your life over and over again because you can't stop: add + active = addictive.

Frequently Asked Questions About “addictive

1. What is the meaning of “addictive” in English?

In English, addictive (adjective) is defined as: “Causing or likely to cause physical or psychological dependence; extremely pleasurable and habit-forming.”.

2. How do you use “addictive” in a sentence?

Many modern video games are designed to be highly addictive.

3. What are English synonyms of “addictive”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “addictive”?

Derived from the Latin 'addictus' (assigned, devoted, or bound to a master), the past participle of 'addicere', formed from 'ad-' (to) + 'dicere' (to pronounce, judge). Historically used in Roman law to describe a debtor legally bound over to a creditor, the meaning evolved in English to denote any compulsive psychological or physiological dependence.