compulsive

adjective

kəm-ˈpəl-siv How to pronounce compulsive (audio)
Definition of compulsivenext
as in obsessive
caused by or suggestive of an irresistible urge his compulsive clowning around can sometimes be annoying

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of compulsive Some breeds are more genetically prone to these obsessive compulsive cats tendencies. — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 July 2026 Some obsessive compulsive cats chew repetitively in ways that go beyond normal exploration or play. — Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 15 July 2026 Along with keeping eyes on the ground, Saar passed along her compulsive will toward creation. — Tara Anne Dalbow, Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2026 Rob-Will is compulsive in his need to do the wrong thing every time. — William Earl, Variety, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for compulsive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compulsive
  1. obsessive
  2. impulsive
Adjective
  • In fact, Jaissle, with his emotional touchline demeanour and obsessive tactical demands, comes across more as a highly-strung indie-rock songwriter/front man.
    — Tim Spiers, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Moore plays a shy housewife whose small role in a community theater production transforms her into an obsessive method actor.
    — Emiliano de Pablos, Variety, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of obsessive
Adjective
  • The actor starred on The Sopranos as Christopher Moltisanti, the cousin of Gandolfini’s Tony Soprano who often ends up in trouble because of his impulsive ways.
    — Victoria Edel, PEOPLE, 12 Aug. 2026
  • But as with any James Gray film, there are life-altering consequences on the other side of impulsive decision-making for the sake of the American dream.
    — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 10 Aug. 2026
Definition of impulsive

Browse Nearby Words

compulsions
compulsive
compulsory
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Compulsive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compulsive. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on compulsive

Nglish: Translation of compulsive for Spanish Speakers

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