First Known Use: 1909
Dictionary
ambivalence
ambivalence
noun am·biv·a·lence \am-ˈbi-və-lən(t)s\
Definition of AMBIVALENCE
1
: simultaneous and contradictory attitudes or feelings (as attraction and repulsion) toward an object, person, or action
2
a : continual fluctuation (as between one thing and its opposite) b : uncertainty as to which approach to follow
— am·biv·a·lent \-lənt\ adjective
— am·biv·a·lent·ly adverb
Origin of AMBIVALENCE
International Scientific Vocabulary
Other Psychology Terms
ambivalence
noun am·biv·a·lence \am-ˈbiv-ə-lən(t)s\ (Medical Dictionary)
Medical Definition of AMBIVALENCE
: simultaneous and contradictory attitudes or feelings (as attraction and repulsion) toward an object, person, or action <ambivalence which is expressed in behavior by alternating obedience and rebellion—G. S. Blum>
—am·biv·a·lent \-lənt\ adjective
—am·biv·a·lent·ly adverb
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