conductive

adjective

con·​duc·​tive kən-ˈdək-tiv How to pronounce conductive (audio)
: having conductivity : relating to conduction (as of electricity)

Examples of conductive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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This approach creates narrow conductive channels that produce sharp, neuron-like electrical spikes. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 15 Apr. 2026 The key innovation here is a special coating on those panels made from a conductive polymer called PEDOT-Cl. Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 14 Apr. 2026 These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways. Southern California Weather Report, Daily News, 13 Apr. 2026 Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges. Southern California Weather Report, Oc Register, 13 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for conductive

Word History

Etymology

earlier, "having the property of conducting or the ability to conduct or lead," from conduct entry 1 + -ive

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of conductive was in 1840

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Conductive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conductive. Accessed 22 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

conductive

adjective
con·​duc·​tive kən-ˈdək-tiv How to pronounce conductive (audio)
: having conductivity : relating to conduction (as of electricity)

Medical Definition

conductive

adjective
con·​duc·​tive -ˈdək-tiv How to pronounce conductive (audio)
1
: having conductivity : relating to conduction (as of electricity)
2
: caused by failure in the mechanisms for sound transmission in the external or middle ear
conductive hearing loss
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