active

adjective ac·tive \ˈak-tiv\

: doing things that require physical movement and energy

: involved in the activities of a group or organization : participating in an action or activity

: involving action or participation

Full Definition of ACTIVE

: characterized by action rather than by contemplation or speculation <an active life>

: producing or involving action or movement

a of a verb form or voice : asserting that the person or thing represented by the grammatical subject performs the action represented by the verb <hits in “he hits the ball” is active>

b : expressing action as distinct from mere existence or state

: quick in physical movement : lively

: marked by vigorous activity : busy <the stock market was active>

: requiring vigorous action or exertion <active sports>

: having practical operation or results : effective <an active law>

a : disposed to action : energetic <took an active interest>

b : engaged in an action or activity <an active club member>

c of a volcano : currently erupting or likely to erupt — compare dormant 2a, extinct 1b

d : characterized by emission of large amounts of electromagnetic energy <an active galactic nucleus>

: engaged in full-time service especially in the armed forces <active duty>

: marked by present operation, transaction, movement, or use <an active account>

a : capable of acting or reacting : reacting readily <active nitrogen> <active ingredients>

b : tending to progress or to cause degeneration <active tuberculosis>

c of an electronic circuit element : capable of controlling voltages or currents

d (1) : requiring the expenditure of energy <active calcium ion uptake> (2) : functioning by the emission of radiant energy or sound <radar is an active sensor>

: still eligible to win the pot in poker

: moving down the line : visiting in the set —used of couples in contredanses or square dances

— active noun

— ac·tive·ly adverb

— ac·tive·ness noun

See active defined for English-language learners

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Origin of ACTIVE

Middle English, from Anglo-French or Latin; Anglo-French actif, from Latin activus, from actus, past participle of agere to drive, do — more at agent

First Known Use: 14th century