active

ac-tive · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Engaged in action; characterized by energetic activity.

  2. 2.

    In operation; functioning or working.

  3. 3.

    Participating or engaged in a particular sphere or activity.

  4. 4.

    [grammar]Denoting a voice of verbs where the subject performs the action.

  5. 5.

    [military]Currently serving; on duty.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    active duty — Full-time military service.
  • •
    active voice — Grammar term for subject-performs-action construction.
  • •
    active ingredient — The component that produces the effect.
  • •
    active listening — Fully concentrating on what is being said.
  • •
    physically active — Engaging in regular exercise.

Related words

Antonyms: dormant, idle, inactive, passive
See also: activate, actively, activity, passive
Synonyms: busy, dynamic, energetic, lively

Etymology

From Latin activus ("active, practical"), from actus ("a doing"), past participle of agere ("to do, drive").