compulsive
UK: kəmˈpʌlsɪv | US: kəmˈpʌlsɪv
adj. 1. Relating to or caused by an irresistible urge, often against one's conscious wishes.
adj. 2. (Of behavior) done repeatedly and excessively, often without rational control.
adj. 3. (Psychology) Characterized by compulsions, as in obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The word "compulsive" traces back to Latin compulsus, the past participle of compellere ("to drive together, force"), from com- (intensive prefix) + pellere ("to drive, push"). The root puls evolved into English through French, retaining the sense of forceful action. The suffix -ive denotes an adjective form, implying a tendency or quality. Historically, the term shifted from literal physical force (e.g., "compelled") to psychological urgency (e.g., "compulsive behavior"), reflecting societal understanding of mental processes.
His compulsive need for order made him rearrange the bookshelf daily.
She fought her compulsive habit of biting her nails.
The novel’s protagonist is a compulsive liar.
Compulsive shopping can lead to financial problems.
Therapists often address compulsive behaviors in anxiety disorders.