Passive

/ˈpæs.ɪv/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The passive voice in grammar.

The use of the passive is common in scientific writing, where the focus is on the action rather than the doer.

adjective

Not actively participating in or responding to an action; allowing things to happen without intervention.

She took a passive role in the discussion, simply listening without contributing her thoughts.

Receiving or undergoing an action rather than taking it; often used in grammatical contexts.

In the sentence 'The ball was kicked by the player,' 'the ball' is in the passive voice.

Lacking in energy or will; apathetic.

His passive attitude towards his job left his colleagues feeling frustrated and unmotivated.

From Latin 'passivus', meaning 'acting upon, suffering, enduring'.

passive-aggressive

A behavioral expression of anger in a non-confrontational manner.

a passive observer

Someone who watches without engaging or participating.

passive income

Money earned with little to no effort on the part of the recipient.

activity

The state of being active or engaging in actions.

aggression

Hostile or violent behavior or attitudes.

Too chill or laid-back; not proactive.

He's so passive about everything; he just goes along with whatever.

In certain contexts, used humorously to describe someone who doesn't take charge.

You're acting so passive it's like you're in a Netflix documentary waiting for something to happen!