Elective

/ɪˈlɛk.tɪv/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A course or subject that students can choose to take, rather than being required to take.

The school offers a variety of electives, including art, music, and computer science.

A position or office that is filled by election.

He ran for the elective position of council member in his local government.

adjective

Relating to or denoting a subject or course that students may choose to study as part of a curriculum.

She chose to take an elective course in photography to explore her creative side.

Of or relating to the selection of candidates for an election.

The elective process ensures that the community has a voice in choosing its leaders.

From Latin 'electivus', from 'eligere' meaning 'to choose'.

elective surgery

A procedure that is scheduled in advance and is not an emergency.

elective course

A class that students can choose to take as part of their studies.

selection

The process of choosing something from a set of options.

choice

The act of selecting among alternatives.

Elective course slang commonly refers to fun or popular classes.

Taking art as an elective is totally chill!

In informal contexts, sometimes refers to non-essential choices or activities.

Choosing an elective just for the easy credit.