Main Entry:

ag·gres·sive

Pronunciation:

\ə-ˈgre-siv\

Function:

adjective

Date:

1824

1 a: tending toward or exhibiting aggression <aggressive behavior> b: marked by combative readiness <an aggressive fighter>2 a: marked by obtrusive energy b: marked by driving forceful energy or initiative : enterprising <an aggressive salesman>3: strong or emphatic in effect or intent <aggressive colors> <aggressive flavors>4: growing, developing, or spreading rapidly <aggressive bone tumors>5: more severe, intensive, or comprehensive than usual especially in dosage or extent <aggressive chemotherapy>

— ag·gres·sive·ly adverb

— ag·gres·sive·ness noun

— ag·gres·siv·i·ty \ˌa-ˌgre-ˈsi-və-tē\ noun

synonyms aggressive, militant, assertive, self-assertive mean obtrusively energetic especially in pursuing particular goals. aggressive implies a disposition to dominate often in disregard of others' rights or in determined and energetic pursuit of one's ends <aggressive in his business dealings>. militant also implies a fighting disposition but suggests not self-seeking but devotion to a cause, movement, or principle <militant protesters rallied against the new law>. assertive suggests bold self-confidence in expression of opinion <the more assertive speakers dominated the forum>. self-assertive connotes forwardness or brash self-confidence <a self-assertive young upstart>.