adjective
compulsive
kuhm-PUHL-sihv
adjective
1
Resulting from an urge that is difficult or impossible to resist.
"His compulsive checking of email became a real problem at work."
"She's a compulsive liar."
How to Use Compulsive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes a behaviour driven by an urge someone struggles to control.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "compulsory" — compulsive describes an uncontrollable urge; compulsory means required by rule.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
compulsive behaviour
compulsive liar
compulsive gambler
Word Forms
more compulsive comparative, compulsives plural, most compulsive superlative
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Etymology
From French compulsif, from Latin compulsus, past participle of compellere, "to compel."