conative

American  

[kon-uh-tiv, koh-nuh-] / ˈkɒn ə tɪv, ˈkoʊ nə- /

adjective

1. Psychology. pertaining to or of the nature of conation.

2. Grammar. expressing endeavor or effort.

   a conative verb.

---

noun

1. Grammar. a conative word, affix, or verbal aspect.

conative British  

/ ˈkɒnətɪv, ˈkəʊ- /

adjective

1. grammar denoting an aspect of verbs in some languages used to indicate the effort of the agent in performing the activity described by the verb

2. of or relating to conation

---

Etymology

Origin of conative

First recorded in 1680–90; conat(ion) + -ive

Example Sentences

Now it is impossible to observe the instinctive routine of the parents, when the young need attention, without being impressed with the conative aspect of their behaviour.

From Territory in Bird Life by Howard, H. Eliot

Present tense, 259; —— gnomic, 259, 1; —— conative, 259, 2; —— historical, 259, 3; —— with jam prīdem, jam diū, etc.,

From New Latin Grammar by Bennett, Charles E. (Charles Edwin)

The third Brook of Grace irrigates the conative powers of the self; strengthens the will in all perfection, and energises us anew.

From Ruysbroeck by Underhill, Evelyn

The growth of the sentiments is of the utmost importance for the character and conduct of individuals and of societies; it is the organization of the affective and conative life.

From Introduction to the Science of Sociology by Park, Robert Ezra

As to sentiments and emotions, they involve ideas and conative elements in addition to sensations and feelings.

From The Psychological Origin and the Nature of Religion by Leuba, James H. (James Henry)