receptive

adjective

re·​cep·​tive ri-ˈsep-tiv 

1

: able or inclined to receive

especially : open and responsive to ideas, impressions, or suggestions

2

a

of a sensory end organ : fit to receive and transmit stimuli

b

: sensory

3

of a female animal : willing to copulate with a male

a receptive mare

receptively adverb

receptiveness noun

receptivity

ˌrē-ˌsep-ˈti-və-tē 

ri-

noun

Synonyms

• open

Examples of receptive in a Sentence

I was happy to be speaking before such a receptive audience.

needed a partner who was receptive to new ways of managing the business

Recent Examples on the Web

Bailey and Johansson, both in excellent form, inject a lot of charm into the evolving rapport between these two opposites — one an idealistic science guy, the other a swaggering combat vet who nonetheless is receptive to Henry’s misgivings about the ethics of the ParkerGenix plan. —David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 30 June 2025

Some conservatives and the Trump White House are receptive to the argument that an extension of tax cuts should not be deemed an automatic addition to deficits. —Zach Halaschak, The Washington Examiner, 29 June 2025

Suggest a trial or pilot program to demonstrate its effectiveness, and remain receptive to feedback and adjustments, showcasing your commitment to maintaining high standards. —Nancy Pulciano, Rolling Stone, 25 June 2025

This regional approach allowed them to fine-tune their messaging and formats in a receptive region before expanding nationally. Blume, which crafts superfood lattes and gut health drinks, took on a similar strategy. —Brin Snelling, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for receptive

• deceptive
• perceptive
• contraceptive
• nociceptive
• proprioceptive

Kids Definition

receptive

adjective

re·​cep·​tive ri-ˈsep-tiv 

1

: able or willing to receive especially ideas

2

: able to receive and pass on stimuli

the receptive part of the retina

receptively adverb

receptiveness noun

receptivity

ˌrē-ˌsep-ˈtiv-ət-ē 

ri-

noun

Medical Definition

receptive

adjective

re·​cep·​tive ri-ˈsep-tiv 

1

: open and responsive to ideas, impressions, or suggestions

2

a

of a sensory end organ : fit to receive and transmit stimuli

b

: sensory sense 1

receptiveness noun

receptivity

ˌrē-ˌsep-ˈtiv-ət-ē, ri- 

noun

plural receptivities