impulsive

[im-puhl-siv]

adjective

1. actuated or swayed by emotional or involuntary impulses.

   an impulsive child.

   Synonyms: hasty, quick, rash

2. having the power or effect of impelling; characterized by impulsion.

   impulsive forces.

3. inciting to action.

   the impulsive effects of a revolutionary idea.

4. Mechanics.,  (of forces) acting momentarily; not continuous.

impulsive

/ ɪmˈpʌlsɪv /

adjective

1. characterized by actions based on sudden desires, whims, or inclinations rather than careful thought

   an impulsive man

2. based on emotional impulses or whims; spontaneous

   an impulsive kiss

3. forceful, inciting, or impelling

4. (of physical forces) acting for a short time; not continuous

5. (of a sound) brief, loud, and having a wide frequency range

Other Word Forms

• impulsively adverb
• impulsivity noun
• impulsiveness noun
• nonimpulsive adjective
• nonimpulsively adverb
• unimpulsive adjective
• unimpulsively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of impulsive¹

First recorded in 1375–1425 for an earlier sense; 1545–55 for current senses; late Middle English impulsif, from Medieval Latin impulsīvus; impulse, -ive

Synonym Study

See impetuous.

Example Sentences

Symptoms can include difficulties concentrating and sitting still, having high energy levels and being impulsive.

From BBC

But they can also diminish the appreciation of consequences, leading to impulsive behaviour - according to academics.

From BBC

You have to keep reminding yourself that she’s drunk and impulsive while he, rather nonsensically, holds his feelings inside until the exact moment he should shut up and save himself.

From Los Angeles Times

They say it may well have been an impulsive act of revenge by a man whose power was waning.

From BBC

This Superman is all impulsive energy, much like his unhousebroken puppy, who also wears a cape and tramples on things when he tries to help.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abrupt 
• hasty 
• impetuous 
• instinctive 
• offhand 
• passionate 
• spontaneous 
• violent