emotive

adjective

emo·​tive i-ˈmō-tiv How to pronounce emotive (audio)
1
: of or relating to the emotions
2
: appealing to or expressing emotion
the emotive use of language
3
chiefly British : causing strong emotions often in support of or against something
… the latest proposal aimed at breaking a long-running deadlock over the emotive issue of whaling …Tom Pfeiffer
emotively adverb
emotivity noun

Examples of emotive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
His singing style, powerful and emotive, had the ability to both stun an audience into silence and spur them to their feet. Joseph Hudak, Rolling Stone, 9 Dec. 2025 The unique melting pot of musical influences are at the forefront of Spirit Wind’s passionate and emotive songs, which speak to the hearts and souls of the listeners as their music transcends borders, according to a news release. Dawn Giangiulio, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Dec. 2025 As an academy graduate who has contributed to memorable moments for United, Mainoo’s status at the club is highly emotive, however. Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 2 Dec. 2025 For a guy who played aloof so well in Saltburn, Elordi is remarkably emotive and accessible here. Joe Reid, Vulture, 1 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for emotive

Word History

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of emotive was in 1830

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Cite this Entry

“Emotive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/emotive. Accessed 15 Dec. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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