Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for passive. Search instead for passivi.
Definitions

passive

[pas-iv] / ˈpæs ɪv /
ADJECTIVE
lifeless, inactive
Synonyms
STRONGEST
apathetic indifferent laid-back nonviolent quiet static unflappable uninvolved
STRONG
bearing cool flat idle long-suffering patient yielding
WEAK
acquiescent asleep compliant docile enduring forbearing going through motions hands off inert latent moony motionless nonresistant phlegmatic poker-faced quiescent receptive resigned sleepy stolid submissive tractable unassertive unresisting walking through it
Antonyms
STRONGEST
caring concerned interested
STRONG
agitated impatient
WEAK
active dynamic lively

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

PE firms and other such assets can come with higher fees than passive funds.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

These results show that astrocytes are not passive helpers.

From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026

Overall, passive indexed mutual funds and ETFs received $232.9 billion in new money, and active funds only $97.6 billion.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

Paramount has described the funds as largely passive investors, saying the royal families would not have input into corporate decision-making.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

They sat at the backs of their cages, passive and blank faced.

From "The Hot Zone" by Richard Preston

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.