affirmative

noun

1

: an expression (such as the word yes) of affirmation or assent

2

: the side that upholds the proposition stated in a debate

3

logic : an affirmative (see affirmative entry 1 sense 4) proposition

see also:

in the affirmative

Synonyms of affirmative

• approval
• acceptance
• yes

Examples of affirmative in a Sentence

we have five affirmatives and two negatives for forming the committee

Recent Examples on the Web

All answered in the affirmative. —Vivian Salama, The Atlantic, 3 June 2026

Colbert quipped, to which McCartney answered in the affirmative. —Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 22 May 2026

Their widened eyes were enough to answer in the affirmative. —Joshua Kloke, New York Times, 9 May 2026

Howard asked Nuñez, to which the FBI agent answered in the affirmative. —Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 23 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Anglo-French affirmatif, noun derivative of affirmatif affirmative entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing affirmative

• affirmative action
• in the affirmative

Kids Definition

affirmative

1 of 2 adjective

af·​fir·​ma·​tive ə-ˈfər-mət-iv 

1

: declaring that the fact is so

gave an affirmative answer

2

: being positive or helpful

take an affirmative approach

affirmatively adverb

affirmative

2 of 2 noun

1

: an expression (as the word yes) of agreement

2

: the affirmative side in a debate or vote

Legal Definition

affirmative

adjective

af·​fir·​ma·​tive ə-ˈfər-mə-tiv 

1

: asserting the existence of certain facts especially in support of a cause of action

affirmative proof

2

: resulting from an intentional act

affirmative concealment

3

: involving or requiring application of effort

an affirmative duty

4

: favoring or supporting a proposition or motion

an affirmative vote

affirmatively adverb