passive

Definition

Being subjected to an action without producing a reaction.

Etymology

From Middle English passyf, passyve, from Middle French, French passif, from Latin passivus (“serving to express the suffering of an action; in late Latin literally capable of suffering or feeling”), from passus, past participle of pati (“to suffer”), ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *peh₁- (“to hurt”); compare patient.

Example Sentences

• "He remained passive during the protest."
• "a passive balloon"
• "a passive aeroplane"

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