Definition of addictivenext
as in addicting
causing or relating to a physiological need for certain drugs an addictive painkiller

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of addictive Yet these lawsuits don’t rest on proving that social media is addictive like cigarettes or gambling. — Allison Parshall, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026 Vapes can also cause inflammation to lung tissue, negatively impact brain development and can be addictive, like other nicotine products. — Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 19 Oct. 2026 Safety by default standards also place limits on the manipulation, algorithmic restraint and other addictive mechanisms that may lead to psychological harm in vulnerable populations such as young people. — Ari Lightman, The Conversation, 16 Oct. 2026 The allegations echo arguments used in product liability cases against social media companies, which have been accused of deliberately designing their platforms to be addictive. — Mary Cunningham, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for addictive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for addictive
addicting
Adjective
  • The Best of Everything is just that—intelligent, heartwarming, exciting, addicting, and also heartbreaking.
    — Air Mail, Air Mail, 22 Aug. 2026
  • Crunchy and creamy, tangy and briny, this dill pickle dip is an addicting concoction that will be welcome at any gathering.
    — Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 1 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Addictive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/addictive. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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