OBSESSIVE Synonyms: 28 Similar and Opposite Words

obsessive

adjective

äb-ˈse-siv

Definition of obsessive

as in impulsive

caused by or suggestive of an irresistible urge intrigued by the man's obsessive counting of everyday objects

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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 obsessive However, popular culture can’t fully explain why summer camps hold such a nostalgic and almost obsessive place in the nation’s collective consciousness. — Derek H. Alderman, The Conversation, 26 June 2026 Ghasemipour is self-taught, which is why his pizza craft is so obsessive. — Kate Kassin, Bon Appetit Magazine, 22 June 2026 The modern wellness industry, however, thrives on the idea that healthy aging requires constant, obsessive measurement and optimization through supplements, wearable devices, expensive scans, or influencers promising to unlock the secret to longevity. — Ezekiel J. Emanuel, Fortune, 21 June 2026 As soon as daylight saving time hits, like clockwork, my once borderline obsessive need to have perfectly pristine floors, windows, walls, and closets is thrown to the wayside. — Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 21 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for obsessive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for obsessive

Adjective

In both cases, the act was an impulsive, existential response with no single cause.

— Sebastian Smee, The Atlantic, 11 July 2026
The series follows Ada, an impulsive police officer and former urban-acrobatics expert who investigates a gang of stunt performers specializing in stealing luxury cargo from trucks travelling at high speed.

— Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 10 July 2026

Definition of impulsive

Adjective

Although Jones takes responsibility for the hurt and dysfunction his compulsive tomcatting caused, the legendary lothario details his conquests with barely disguised glee.

— Hadley Hall Meares, Vanity Fair, 3 July 2026
Rob-Will is compulsive in his need to do the wrong thing every time.

— William Earl, Variety, 3 July 2026