intransitive

[ in-tran-si-tiv ]

adjective

1. noting or having the quality of an intransitive verb.

noun

1. intransitive verb.

intransitive

/ ɪnˈtrænsɪtɪv /

adjective

1. 1. denoting a verb when it does not require a direct object
   2. denoting a verb that customarily does not require a direct object

      "to faint" is an intransitive verb

   3. as noun a verb in either of these categories
2. denoting an adjective or noun that does not require any particular noun phrase as a referent
3. logic maths (of a relation) having the property that if it holds between one argument and a second, and between the second and a third, it must fail to hold between the first and the third

   "being the mother of" is an intransitive relation

Derived Forms

• inˌtransiˈtivity, noun
• inˈtransitively, adverb

Other Words From

• in·transi·tive·ly adverb
• in·transi·tive·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of intransitive¹

From the Latin word intrānsitīvus, dating back to 1605–15. See in- ³, transitive

Example Sentences

This meaning of , taken as intransitive, is rather vague, but I believe substantially correct.

From Project Gutenberg

The intransitive form derives from the transitive by dropping a generalized, customary, reflexive or cognate object.

From Project Gutenberg

Indeed, the intransitive form of the Anglo-Saxon verb winnan, whence our win, signifies "To gain the victory."

From Project Gutenberg

Smake, perceive by smell; a rare transitive use; see 211/497 for the intransitive, give out a smell.

From Project Gutenberg

What looks at first, therefore, like a copula turns out to be merely an impersonal intransitive verb.

From Project Gutenberg