Definition of "selective" in English

adjective

1. Of or relating to the process of selection.

2. (biology) Of or relating to natural selection.

   • selective pressure

3. (of a person) Choosy, fussy or discriminating when selecting.

   • He's very selective and spent hours in the store choosing a new shirt.

4. (chiefly US, not comparable) Having the authority or capability to make a selection.

   • In the USA, military conscription is controlled by the Selective Service.

5. Of or relating to the social work approach called selectivity.