occlusive

[ uh-kloo-siv ]

adjective

1. occluding or tending to occlude.
2. Phonetics. characterized by or having occlusion.

noun

, Phonetics.

1. a stop that is unreleased, as the p -sound in stop, or deviously released, as the k- sound in acme, acne, or action, the t- sound of catnip, the g- sound of pygmy or ugly.
2. (not in technical use) any stop sound.

Other Words From

• oc·clusive·ness noun
• nonoc·clusive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of occlusive¹

1885–90; < Latin occlūs ( us ) ( occlusion ) + -ive

Example Sentences

In severe cases where medical attention is hours away, a completely occlusive tourniquet may be necessary to prevent death.

From Project Gutenberg

But these articles are not so clean or effective as the occlusive rubber pessary.

From Project Gutenberg

An occlusive dressing of melted paraffin has also been employed.

From Project Gutenberg