obsessive — unable to stop thinking about something; preoccupied with or constantly worrying about something
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: unable to stop thinking about something; preoccupied with or constantly worrying about something
Pronunciation (IPA): /əbˈsesɪv/
Example Sentences
- My roommate is obsessive about organizing his sock drawer by color, pattern, and thickness.
- She became obsessive about checking her ex-boyfriend's social media posts.
- His obsessive attention to detail made him an excellent proofreader but a terrible dinner guest.
obsessive
ADJECTIVE[/əbˈsesɪv/]
unable to stop thinking about something; preoccupied with or constantly worrying about something
His obsessive focus on every tiny mistake kept him awake all night.
His obsessive pursuit of success filled his thoughts every day. (🧠 Think + 🔄 Again → Obsessive)
His obsessive training became so impressive that everyone admired his achievement.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Latin obsessus, the past participle of obsidere, formed from ob- (before, in front of) and sedere (to sit). Originally meaning 'to besiege' or 'to sit before,' the term evolved metaphorically to describe a state of mind where thoughts persistently occupy one's attention, as if constantly watched over.
Breakdown
ob- (before, in front of) + sess- (sit, from Latin sedere) + -ive (adjective suffix forming a quality or state). The root sess reflects the Latin sedere meaning 'to sit,' while -ive transforms the past participle base into an adjective describing a persistent or habitual condition.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My roommate is obsessive about organizing his sock drawer by color, pattern, and thickness.”
“She became obsessive about checking her ex-boyfriend's social media posts.”
“His obsessive attention to detail made him an excellent proofreader but a terrible dinner guest.”
“The detective's obsessive pursuit of the truth finally solved the cold case.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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