expressive

adjective

ex·​pres·​sive ik-ˈspre-siv How to pronounce expressive (audio)
Synonyms of expressivenext
1
: of or relating to expression
the expressive function of language
2
: serving to express, utter, or represent
… foul and novel terms expressive of rage.—H. G. Wells
3
: effectively conveying meaning or feeling
an expressive silence
expressive line drawings
expressively adverb
expressiveness noun

Synonyms of expressive

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Examples of expressive in a Sentence

the expressive function of language the teacher's expressive sigh showed that she had heard that excuse many times before
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
So, bringing the expressive pads allowed people to experiment with making music by sliding their fingers across them, putting a snare in the middle and a rim shot around the edges. — Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 30 June 2026 Cardi B‘s shoe style is as bold and expressive as her personality, blending high-fashion luxury with statement-making trends. — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 30 June 2026 Disgruntled colonists in taverns and town squares borrowed British melodies to support new lyrics expressive of a developing national consciousness. — Ted Olson, The Conversation, 2 July 2026 Fiery Mars shifts into your 11th House of Friends, quickening chats and group planning while your expressive nature rallies people around playful, creative goals. — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for expressive

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of expressive was in the 15th century

Rhymes for expressive

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Browse Nearby Words

express itself/themselves
expressive
expressively
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Expressive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expressive. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

expressive

adjective
ex·​pres·​sive ik-ˈspres-iv How to pronounce expressive (audio)
1
: of or relating to expression
2
: serving to express
3
: full of expression
also : openly expressing one's feelings
an expressive face
expressively adverb
expressiveness noun

Legal Definition

expressive

adjective
ex·​pres·​sive
1
: of or relating to expression
2
: serving to express or represent
expressive conduct protected by the First Amendment
expressively adverb
expressiveness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on expressive

Nglish: Translation of expressive for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about expressive

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