Synonyms of obsessive

obsessive

adjective

äb-ˈse-siv 

as in impulsive

caused by or suggestive of an irresistible urge

intrigued by the man's obsessive counting of everyday objects

Synonyms & Similar Words

• impulsive
• compulsive
• obsessional
• driven
• spontaneous
• automatic
• instinctive
• uncontrollable
• besetting
• irrepressible
• mechanical
• reflex
• unpredictable
• unconscious
• unthinking
• whimsical
• knee-jerk
• involuntary
• conditioned
• capricious
• unwitting

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• voluntary
• willful
• manageable
• controllable
• unforced
• resistible

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of obsessive

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

In the weeks leading up to the murder, Cuesta-Rodriguez's behavior was growing increasingly obsessive, controlling, and violent, according to family, prosecutors, and court records. — Amanda Lee Myers, USA Today, 13 Aug. 2026

The perfect dog needed to love balls or tug toys, be neurotic and extremely obsessive. — Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 11 Aug. 2026