expressive
adjective
ex·pres·sive
ik-ˈspre-siv 
1
: of or relating to expression
the expressive function of language
2
: serving to express, utter, or represent
… foul and novel terms expressive of rage.—
H. G. Wells
H. G. Wells3
: effectively conveying meaning or feeling
an expressive silence
expressive line drawings
expressively
adverb
expressiveness
noun
Examples of expressive in a Sentence
the expressive function of language
the teacher's expressive sigh showed that she had heard that excuse many times before
Recent Examples on the Web
According to the firm, its robots provide interactive assistance, handling routine inquiries with a warm, human-like presence and expressive body language.
—Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 6 Jan. 2026
Designers and contractors alike point to a shift toward expressive entrances, layered planting, and smarter infrastructure—all of which will improve aesthetics and long-term performance.
—Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 6 Jan. 2026
Together, these details create a vibe that feels intentional, expressive, and a little fearless—exactly the energy 2026 is bringing.
—Belle Bakst, InStyle, 6 Jan. 2026
Kassidy is imaginative and expressive, often turning everyday moments into opportunities for fun and performance.
—Mare Staff, Boston Herald, 4 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for expressive
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Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 6 Jan. 2026
Designers and contractors alike point to a shift toward expressive entrances, layered planting, and smarter infrastructure—all of which will improve aesthetics and long-term performance.
—Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 6 Jan. 2026
Together, these details create a vibe that feels intentional, expressive, and a little fearless—exactly the energy 2026 is bringing.
—Belle Bakst, InStyle, 6 Jan. 2026
Kassidy is imaginative and expressive, often turning everyday moments into opportunities for fun and performance.
—Mare Staff, Boston Herald, 4 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for expressive
Cite this Entry
“Expressive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expressive. Accessed 9 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
expressive
adjective
ex·pres·sive
ik-ˈspres-iv
1
: of or relating to expression
2
: serving to express
3
: full of expression
also
: openly expressing one's feelings
an expressive face
expressively
adverb
expressiveness
noun
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