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

3

: effectively conveying meaning or feeling

an expressive silence

expressive line drawings

expressively adverb

expressiveness noun

Synonyms of expressive

• eloquent
• suggestive
• revealing
• meaningful
• meaning

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

She was known for her expressive lyrical dances and for being one of Miller's favorite performers, which often caused tension between the moms on the show. —Sydni Ellis, PEOPLE, 8 Dec. 2025

Moscow Midnight is moody, elegant, and expressive. —Lauren Jones, Southern Living, 7 Dec. 2025

Makeup artist Lauren Andersen sees a growing appreciation for artistry and makeup among her clients that is expressive and emotional, not corrective. —Sophia Panych, Allure, 6 Dec. 2025

Hannah, 32, share the video of Flapjack, her 8-month-old pup whose expressive face at the daycare window has melted hearts. —Alice Gibbs, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for expressive

• aggressive
• compressive
• concessive
• depressive
• excessive
• impressive
• obsessive
• oppressive
• possessive
• progressive
• recessive
• regressive

Kids 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

Legal Definition

expressive

adjective

ex·​pres·​sive

1

: of or relating to expression

2

: serving to express or represent

expressive conduct protected by the First Amendment

expressively adverb

expressiveness noun