compulsive

Etymology

Borrowed from French compulsif, formed from Latin compulsus, past participle of compellere (“to compel”), from com- (“together”) + pellere (“to drive”).

adj

  1. Uncontrolled or reactive and irresistible.
    Jenny is a compulsive liar - don't believe a thing she says.
    Under this Act, the term "disability" shall not include—...(2) compulsive gambling, kleptomania, or pyromania; or[…] 1990, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
  2. Having power to compel; exercising or applying compulsion.
    Religion is […] inconsistent with all compulsive Motives. a. 1729, Samuel Clarke, The Doctrines of Religion reasonable to be believed

noun

  1. One who exhibits compulsive behaviours.

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