allusive

[uh-loo-siv]

adjective

1. having reference to something implied or inferred; containing, abounding in, or characterized by allusions.

2. Obsolete.,  metaphorical; symbolic; figurative.

allusive

/ əˈluːsɪv /

adjective

1. containing or full of allusions

Other Word Forms

• allusively adverb
• allusiveness noun
• unallusive adjective
• unallusively adverb
• unallusiveness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of allusive¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; allus(ion) + -ive

Example Sentences

This allusive track boasts the album’s most sweeping chorus, anchored by Swift’s mesmeric alto and a masterfully orchestrated rhythm that uses moments of quiet to its advantage.

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The allusive nature of “Fox” and its twist ending shows how greatness that comes from awfulness can be inconveniently, unquestioningly good.

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Henry will brook no defiance, no matter how allusive, and so Cromwell must die under the shadow of an axe.

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The allusive, charged opening sequence alone would qualify as a devastating short film on the subject.

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It is left to directors to determine the size of the cast and to divide up Jelinek’s finely chiseled writing, which is by turns poetic, punning, allusive and philosophical.

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