aggressive
UK: əˈɡres.ɪv | US: əˈɡres.ɪv
adj. ready or likely to attack or confront; characterized by hostility
adj. pursuing goals forcefully, often with determination and initiative
adj. (of a disease) progressing rapidly or severely
The word "aggressive" originates from Latin aggressus (past participle of aggredi, meaning "to approach or attack"), combining ad- (toward) and gradi (to step or move). The root gress reflects movement, often with forceful intent. Over time, the term evolved in English (early 19th century) to describe both physical hostility and assertive behavior. The suffix -ive turns the action into a descriptive adjective, emphasizing the proactive or confrontational nature of the subject.
His aggressive stance during the debate intimidated the other candidates.
The company adopted an aggressive marketing strategy to dominate the market.
The dog became aggressive when strangers approached its owner.
Doctors are concerned about the aggressive spread of the virus.
She criticized the team’s aggressive playstyle as unsportsmanlike.