Definition of "active" in English

adjective

1. Having the power or quality of acting; causing change; communicating action or motion; acting;—opposed to passive, that receives.

   • certain active principles
   • the active powers of the mind

2. Quick in physical movement; of an agile and vigorous body; nimble.

   • an active child or animal

3. In action; actually proceeding; working; in force

   • active laws
   • active hostilities

4. Given to action; constantly engaged in action; energetic; diligent; busy

   • an active man of business
   • active mind
   • active zeal

5. Requiring or implying action or exertion

   • active employment or service
   • active scenes

6. Given to action rather than contemplation; practical; operative

   • an active rather than a speculative statesman

7. Brisk; lively.

   • an active demand for corn

8. Implying or producing rapid action.

   • an active disease
   • an active remedy

9. (heading, grammar) About verbs.

10. (computing, of source code) Eligible to be processed by a compiler or interpreter.

11. (electronics) Not passive.

12. (gay sexual slang) (of a homosexual man) enjoying a role in anal sex in which he penetrates, rather than being penetrated by his partner.

noun

1. A person or thing that is acting or capable of acting.

2. (electronics) Any component that is not passive. See Passivity (engineering).