passive
|pas/sive|
B2
/ˈpæsɪv/
without active response
Etymology
Etymology Information
'passive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'passivus,' where 'pass-' meant 'suffered' or 'endured.'
Historical Evolution
'passivus' transformed into the Old French word 'passif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'passive' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'suffering or enduring,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'inactive or submissive.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
accepting or allowing what happens or what others do, without active response or resistance.
She remained passive during the entire meeting.
Synonyms
inactivesubmissive
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40