connective

1 of 2

adjective

con·​nec·​tive kə-ˈnek-tiv 

: serving to connect

connectively adverb

connective

2 of 2

noun

: something that connects: such as

a

: a linguistic form that connects words or word groups

b

: a logical term (such as or, if-then, and, not) or a symbol for it that relates propositions in such a way that the truth or falsity of the resulting statement is determined by the truth or falsity of the components

Examples of connective in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Fibroblasts are cells that produce connective structures like collagen and elastin, which serve as the scaffolding within skin—so increasing their numbers can translate to more of those important fibers and, in turn, smoother, firmer skin. —Deanna Pai, Allure, 29 June 2024

But more remarkable is the correlation between 65 years of great-power peace and the steady spread of democracy, deepening economic interdependence, the boom in connective technologies such as the Internet, and the diminishing advantages of territorial conquest. —Bruce Blair, Foreign Affairs, 16 June 2011

Noun

This tough connective has a silvery look. —Rita Nader Heikenfeld, The Enquirer, 24 Feb. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1660, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1751, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing connective

• connective tissue

Kids Definition

connective

1 of 2 adjective

con·​nec·​tive kə-ˈnek-tiv 

: connecting or tending to connect

connectively adverb

connective

2 of 2 noun

: something that connects

especially : a word or expression (as a conjunction or a relative pronoun) that connects words or word groups