emotive

adjective

emo·​tive i-ˈmō-tiv 

1

: of or relating to the emotions

2

: appealing to or expressing emotion

the emotive use of language

3

chiefly British : causing strong emotions often in support of or against something

… the latest proposal aimed at breaking a long-running deadlock over the emotive issue of whaling …

—Tom Pfeiffer

emotively adverb

emotivity

i-ˌmō-ˈti-və-tē 

ˌē-ˌmō-

noun

Examples of emotive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The statement was emotive and scathing. —Ed Caesar, New Yorker, 30 Apr. 2026

Throughout modern history, first ladies have often served as the empathetic, emotive counterpart to their husbands, who tend to remain more manly and stoic. —Joy Press, Vanity Fair, 28 Apr. 2026

Veteran Pinoy rock bands like Eraserheads and current acts like Cup of Joe and Lola Amour are cutting-edge, virtuosic and exquisitely emotive. —Los Angeles Times, 9 Apr. 2026

Early on, the emotive Moon opposes firm Saturn, meaning that our plans might get caught between patience with ourselves and duties to others. —Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 1 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for emotive

• promotive
• automotive
• locomotive
• electromotive
• motive
• votive