obsessive

adjective

ob·​ses·​sive äb-ˈse-siv 

əb-

1

a

: tending to cause obsession

b

: excessive often to an unreasonable degree

2

: of, relating to, or characterized by obsession : deriving from obsession

obsessive noun

obsessively adverb

obsessiveness noun

Synonyms

• besetting
• compulsive
• driven
• impulsive
• obsessional

Examples of obsessive in a Sentence

Many dancers are obsessive about their weight.

He is an obsessive workaholic who never stops thinking about his job.

an obsessive interest in space travel

The new therapy is supposed to help people control their obsessive thoughts.

Recent Examples on the Web

What wearable devices can’t do On the flip side, obsessive tests and false alarms are just a few reasons why physicians advise the public to take the wearables’ advice with caution. —Lauren Ferrer, Sun Sentinel, 17 June 2024

An overall tour de force of technology and obsessive craftsmanship. —Josh Condon, Robb Report, 13 June 2024

Cut back to seventies Louis absolutely bitching about Lestat to Daniel, with all the hateful, obsessive passion of a fresh break-up, even 33 years later. —Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 9 June 2024

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s films are known for splendor, grandiosity and obsessive attention to light and detail. —Mujib Mashal Atul Loke, New York Times, 1 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing obsessive

• obsessive-compulsive
• obsessive-compulsive disorder

Kids Definition

obsessive

adjective

ob·​ses·​sive äb-ˈses-iv 

əb-

: of, relating to, having, or being an obsession

obsessively adverb

Medical Definition

obsessive

1 of 2 adjective

ob·​ses·​sive äb-ˈses-iv, əb- 

: of, relating to, causing, or characterized by obsession : deriving from obsession

obsessive behavior

obsessively adverb

obsessiveness noun

obsessive

2 of 2 noun

: an obsessive individual