expressive

adjective

ex·​pres·​sive ik-ˈspre-siv 

1

: of or relating to expression

the expressive function of language

2

: serving to express, utter, or represent

foul and novel terms expressive of rage

—H. G. Wells

3

: effectively conveying meaning or feeling

an expressive silence

expressive line drawings

expressively adverb

expressiveness noun

Synonyms

• eloquent
• meaning
• meaningful
• pregnant
• revealing
• revelatory
• significant
• suggestive

Examples of expressive in a Sentence

the expressive function of language

the teacher's expressive sigh showed that she had heard that excuse many times before

Recent Examples on the Web

The brain naturally uses fewer cognitive resources to be expressive and creative, compared with the brain power needed to do a rote task that requires conscious effort. —Girija Kaimal, The Conversation, 20 June 2024

Critics were virtually unanimous in praising Ms. Bofill’s silky, expressive voice, which found a home on the new radio format known as quiet storm. —Harrison Smith, Washington Post, 18 June 2024

There is an uncommon alignment between Venus in your productivity sector and transformative Pluto in your expressive 1st house. —Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 18 June 2024

This urban dance style combines hip-hop culture, acrobatic moves and expressive footwork. —Amy Pope, Discover Magazine, 17 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

expressive

adjective

ex·​pres·​sive ik-ˈspres-iv 

1

: of or relating to expression

2

: serving to express

3

: full of expression

also : openly expressing one's feelings

an expressive face

expressively adverb

expressiveness noun

Legal Definition

expressive

adjective

ex·​pres·​sive

1

: of or relating to expression

2

: serving to express or represent

expressive conduct protected by the First Amendment

expressively adverb

expressiveness noun