expressive Meaning, Definition & Usage

Ex*press"ive adjective

Etymology

Cf. F. expressif.

Definitions

1. Serving to express, utter, or represent; indicative; communicative; -- followed by of; as, words expressive of his gratitude.

   Each verse so swells expressive of her woes. Tickell.

2. Full of expression; vividly representing the meaning or feeling meant to be conveyed; significant; emphatic; as, expressive looks or words.

   You have restrained yourself within the list of too cold an adieu; be more expressive to them. Shak.

   Through her expressive eyes her soul distinctly spoke. Littelton.

   -- Ex*press"ive*ly,adv. -- Ex*press"ive*ness,n.