Definitions

passive

[pas-iv] / ˈpæs ɪv /

ADJECTIVE

lifeless, inactive

Synonyms

STRONGEST

apathetic indifferent laid-back nonviolent quiet static unflappable uninvolved

STRONG

bearing cool flat idle long-suffering patient yielding

WEAK

acquiescent asleep compliant docile enduring forbearing going through motions hands off inert latent moony motionless nonresistant phlegmatic poker-faced quiescent receptive resigned sleepy stolid submissive tractable unassertive unresisting walking through it

Antonyms

STRONGEST

caring concerned interested

STRONG

agitated impatient

WEAK

active dynamic lively

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Passive index funds are a behemoth hiding in plain sight.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

Passive investors have more time, under agency rules.

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 2026

Passive indexes that allot the greatest influence to the biggest companies do nothing to aid in capital allocation for the broader economy, he said.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 8, 2025

Passive warm-ups relied on external heat sources, such as heat pads or a hot shower, to increase muscle temperature without movement.

From Science Daily • Nov. 27, 2025

Passive voice, defined, 84; conjugation of follow, in the, 105 ff.; synopsis of follow in the, 106.

From Business English A Practice Book by Buhlig, Rose

Vocabulary lists containing passive

Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

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The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 5

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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

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