direct object

noun

1. a word or group of words representing the person or thing upon which the action of a verb is performed or toward which it is directed: in English, generally coming after the verb, without a preposition. In He saw it the pronoun it is the direct object of saw.

direct object

noun

1. grammar a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase whose referent receives the direct action of a verb. For example, a book is the direct object in the sentence They bought Anne a book Compare indirect object

direct object

1. A noun , pronoun , or group of words serving as the receiving end of an action, such as the ball in “Tabitha hit the ball.” A direct object can be a word, phrase , or clause : “Sam chose Rusty to play shortstop”; “I will never understand why he came home .” ( Compare indirect object .)

Word History and Origins

Origin of direct object¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

In this Institution it is made a direct object of effort to cure defects of character and habits.

From Project Gutenberg

This, when thus made a direct object of combined effort, often secures results most gratifying and encouraging.

From Project Gutenberg

We have seen that extension in itself is not the direct object of sensation.

From Project Gutenberg

I was glad to select it for you as the direct object of our visit, although it has formed a small part of our journey.

From Project Gutenberg

But neither this nor any other purely political result would be the sole and direct object of the change.

From Project Gutenberg