ostensive

American  

[o-sten-siv] / ɒˈstɛn sɪv /

adjective

1. clearly or manifestly demonstrative.

2. ostensible.

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ostensive British  

/ ɒˈstɛnsɪv /

adjective

1. obviously or manifestly demonstrative

2. a less common word for ostensible

3. philosophy (of a definition) given by demonstrative means, esp by pointing

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Other Word Forms

• nonostensive
  adjective
• nonostensively
  adverb
• ostensively
  adverb
• unostensive
  adjective
• unostensively
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of ostensive

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; see ob-, -ive

Example Sentences

Such has been the trope of the rom-com since Carole Lombard crumpled in the arms of John Barrymore, but today’s ostensive “trainwrecks” transcend the genre and the Hollywood arena.

From Salon • Aug. 10, 2015

This instinct is far stronger and has more very ostensive outcrops than in any other age and land, and it is less controlled by the authority of school or the home.

From Creative Impulse in Industry A Proposition for Educators by Marot, Helen

Reduction of propositions, 667. of the dilemma, 796. of disjunctive syllogisms, 766. indirect, 691. mnemonics for, 697. ostensive or direct, 673. of partly conjunctive syllogisms, 744.

From Deductive Logic by Stock, St. George William Joseph

No proof, in a question of that nature, can be so showy and ostensive to a stranger as that which is supplied by this vindictive pamphlet.

From Theological Essays and Other Papers — Volume 2 by De Quincey, Thomas

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

From Area Handbook for Albania by Elpern, Sarah Jane