addictive

adjective

ad·​dic·​tive ə-ˈdik-tiv 

a-

: causing or characterized by addiction

an addictive drug

an addictive personality

Synonyms of addictive

• addicting

Examples of addictive in a Sentence

highly addictive drugs like crack and heroin

the addictive thrill of surfing

Recent Examples on the Web

Crunchy, smoky, and a little addictive, this Chex mix appetizer is perfect for casual drop-ins and holiday parties alike. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 19 Sep. 2026

But some experts said the commission was failing to tackle a more fundamental issue with the social media industry’s core business practices based on getting users hooked on scrolling through addictive content while showing them ads. — ABC News, 16 Sep. 2026

The Gin Basil Smash, an addictive blend of gin, lemon, sugar, and basil, topped the list. — Rachel Syme, New Yorker, 11 Sep. 2026

Nicotine is addictive and intended for adults age 21 and over. — Ascend Agency, New York Daily News, 11 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

addict entry 2 + -ive

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for addictive

• constrictive
• predictive
• restrictive
• vindictive
• magnetostrictive

Kids Definition

addictive

adjective

ad·​dic·​tive ə-ˈdik-tiv 

a-

: causing or characterized by addiction

an addictive drug

an addictive game

Medical Definition

addictive

adjective

ad·​dic·​tive ə-ˈdik-tiv 

: causing or characterized by addiction

addictive drugs

Legal Definition

addictive

adjective

ad·​dic·​tive ə-ˈdik-tiv 

: causing or characterized by addiction

addictive drugs