adjective

compulsive

compulsive

He is a compulsive liar.

He is a compulsive liar.

She has a compulsive need to clean.

She has a compulsive need to clean.

((compulsive)) + noun describing a person with a habit He is a compulsive gambler.

Synonyms: obsessive, irresistible; Antonyms: controlled, voluntary

From Latin 'compellere' (to compel). 'com-' (together) + 'pellere' (to drive). The idea is being 'driven' to do something.

Think of a 'compulsion,' an internal urge that 'compels' you to act. 'Compulsive' describes this behaviour.

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