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compulsive

/kəmˈpʌlsɪv/
/kəmˈpʌlsɪv/
IPA guide

Other forms: compulsives

Compulsive people have irresistible urges to do certain things, like a compulsive gossip who simply cannot keep a secret.

If you're compulsive, you can't stop yourself from doing something, like compulsive counting of the sidewalk blocks on your way to school. There is sometimes an upside to compulsive behavior — like a compulsive desire to be the best hockey player, which makes you work hard to make it happen. Someone who has compulsive tendencies can be called a compulsive, the noun form of the word.

Definitions of compulsive
  1. adjective
    caused by or suggestive of psychological compulsion
    compulsive drinking”
    synonyms:
    neurotic, psychoneurotic
    affected with emotional disorder
  2. noun
    a person with a compulsive disposition; someone who feels compelled to do certain things
    see moresee less
    types:
    control freak
    someone with a compulsive desire to exert control over situations and people
    exhibitionist, flasher
    someone with a compulsive desire to expose the genitals
    perfectionist
    a person who is displeased by anything that does not meet very high standards
    workaholic
    person with a compulsive need to work
    streaker
    someone who takes off all their clothes and runs naked through a public place
    type of:
  3. adjective
    strongly motivated to succeed
    synonyms: determined, driven
    ambitious, aspirational
    having a strong desire for success or achievement
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