assistive

adjective

as·​sis·​tive ə-ˈsi-stiv 

: providing aid or assistance

specifically : designed or intended to assist disabled persons

assistive technology

Examples of assistive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Betts thought all the assistive tools and apps on the market sounded too robotic. —Meghan Schiller, CBS News, 6 Mar. 2026

These programs typically offer tax relief to offset out-of-pocket costs, such as home modifications, assistive technology, or respite care, though eligibility, benefit amounts, and other considerations vary widely. —Sierra Leone Starks, Parents, 3 Mar. 2026

Requirements for mass adoption of assistive listening technology by the general public. —IEEE Spectrum, 26 Feb. 2026

The company is moving steadily from assistive tools to autonomous systems, guided by a belief that data, not novelty, is the true source of AI advantage. —Peter High, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

assist entry 1 + -ive

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

assistive

adjective

as·​sist·​ive ə-ˈsis-tiv 

: providing aid or assistance

specifically : designed or intended to assist a disabled person in performing an activity, task, or function especially in an independent manner

assistive technology

Assistive devices help with the performance of daily activities. Most familiar are canes, crutches, and walkers. Other examples of simple assistive devices are raised toilet seats and firm pillows placed under the seats of chairs to help people with hip or knee arthritis to rise from a sitting position.

—Simeon Margolis, The Johns Hopkins White Pages

With some assistive devices, the visually impaired can do a variety of office jobs, using computers and telephones.

—Eric Aasen, The Dallas Morning News

Assistive technology (AT) by its very nature consists of a variety of personal and customized tools for multiple learning styles and physical challenges.

—Kelly Ahrens, Learning & Leading with Technology