passive Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun the voice used to indicate that the grammatical subject of the verb is the recipient (not the source) of the action denoted by the verb
passive voice.
- `The ball was thrown by the boy' uses the passive voice
- `The ball was thrown' is an abbreviated passive
adjective lacking in energy or will
inactive.
- Much benevolence of the passive order may be traced to a disinclination to inflict pain upon oneself"- George Meredith
adjective satellite peacefully resistant in response to injustice
peaceful.
- passive resistance
adjective expressing that the subject of the sentence is the patient of the action denoted by the verb
- academics seem to favor passive sentences

L. passivus: cf. F. passif. See Passion.

Not active, but acted upon; suffering or receiving impressions or influences; as, they were passive spectators, not actors in the scene.
The passive air Upbore their nimble tread. Milton.

The mind is wholly passive in the reception of all its simple ideas. Locke.
Receiving or enduring without either active sympathy or active resistance; without emotion or excitement; patient; not opposing; unresisting; as, passive obedience; passive submission.
The best virtue, passive fortitude. Massinger.
(Chem.) Inactive; inert; not showing strong affinity; as, red phosphorus is comparatively passive.
(Med.) Designating certain morbid conditions, as hemorrhage or dropsy, characterized by relaxation of the vessels and tissues, with deficient vitality and lack of reaction in the affected tissues. Syn. -- Inactive; inert; quiescent; unresisting; unopposing; suffering; enduring; submissive; patient.