ostensive

[ o-sten-siv ]

adjective

1. clearly or manifestly demonstrative.
2. ostensible.

ostensive

/ ɒˈstɛnsɪv /

adjective

1. obviously or manifestly demonstrative
2. See ostensible
   a less common word for ostensible
3. philosophy (of a definition) given by demonstrative means, esp by pointing

Derived Forms

• osˈtensively, adverb

Other Words From

• os·tensive·ly adverb
• nonos·tensive adjective
• nonos·tensive·ly adverb
• unos·tensive adjective
• unos·tensive·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of ostensive¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; from Medieval Latin ostēnsīvus, equivalent to Latin ostēns(us), variant of ostentus, past participle of ostendere “to present, display” ( o(b)s, variant of ob- “to, toward, on” + tend(ere) “to stretch” + -tus past participle suffix) + -īvus adjective suffix; ob-, -ive

Word History and Origins

Origin of ostensive¹

C17: from Late Latin ostentīvus, from Latin ostendere to show; see ostensible

Example Sentences

Associated words: ostensive, ostensible, exhibiting, expository.

From Project Gutenberg

Explain the meaning of "ostensive" and "indirect" Reduction.

From Project Gutenberg

It serves mainly to provide the regime with ostensive evidence of its power and technological progress.

From Project Gutenberg