- aggressive
- adjective
Date: 1824
1.
a. tending toward or exhibiting aggression <aggressive behavior> b. marked by combative readiness <an aggressive fighter> 2. a. marked by obtrusive energy b. marked by driving forceful energy or initiative ; enterprising <an aggressive salesman> 3. strong or emphatic in effect or intent <aggressive colors> <aggressive flavors> 4. growing, developing, or spreading rapidly <aggressive bone tumors> 5. more severe, intensive, or comprehensive than usual especially in dosage or extent <aggressive chemotherapy> • aggressively adverb • aggressiveness noun • aggressivity noun Synonyms: aggressive, militant, assertive, self-assertive mean obtrusively energetic especially in pursuing particular goals. aggressive implies a disposition to dominate often in disregard of others' rights or in determined and energetic pursuit of one's ends <was taught to be aggressive in his business dealings>. militant also implies a fighting disposition but suggests not self-seeking but devotion to a cause, movement, or principle <militant protesters held a rally against racism>. assertive suggests bold self-confidence in expression of opinion <the more assertive speakers dominated the forum>. self-assertive connotes forwardness or brash self-confidence <>.
New Collegiate Dictionary. 2001.