Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Causing or characterized by addiction: Describes a substance, activity, or behavior that is so compelling or pleasurable that it can lead to a strong and often uncontrollable desire to keep using or doing it, potentially resulting in physical or psychological dependence.

Usage

The word "addictive" is used to describe things that have the power to create a dependency. It is commonly applied to drugs, certain foods, games, or behaviors. It typically precedes the noun it modifies.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • Nicotine is a highly addictive substance.
  • The new video game is so addictive that players lose track of time.
  • Social media platforms are designed to be addictive.

Advanced Usage

• "to be addictive to someone": This phrasing is less common and slightly informal, used to indicate that a specific person finds something addictive.
  • That puzzle game is addictive to my younger brother.
• Used in formal or medical contexts to describe properties.
  • The study focused on the addictive potential of the new medication.

Variants and Related Words

• Addiction (n): The state of being addicted to a particular substance or activity.
  • He sought help for his gambling addiction.
• Addict (n): A person who is addicted to something.
  • She is a recovering addict.
• Addictively (adv): In a manner that causes addiction.
  • The show is addictively entertaining.

Synonyms

• Habit-forming: Likely to cause a habit or addiction.
• Compulsive: Resulting from or relating to an irresistible urge.
• Enslaving (figurative): Having a power over someone akin to slavery.

Antonyms

• Non-addictive: Not causing addiction.
• Repellent: Causing distaste or aversion.

Related Phrases

• "Addictive personality": A hypothesized set of personality traits that may make someone more prone to developing addictions.
  • Some theories suggest he has an addictive personality.

Adjective

1. causing or characterized by addiction
   • addictive drugs
   • addictive behavior