passive-aggressive

American  

[pas-iv-uh-gres-iv] / ˈpæs ɪv əˈgrɛs ɪv /

adjective

1. denoting or pertaining to a personality type or behavior marked by the expression of negative emotions in passive, indirect ways, as through manipulation or noncooperation.

   a passive-aggressive employee who often misses deadlines.

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passive-aggressive British  

adjective

1. psychoanal of or relating to a personality that harbours aggressive emotions while behaving in a calm or detached manner

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Usage

What does passive-aggressive mean? Passive aggressive behavior is a way to express feelings of anger or annoyance, but in a non-forthcoming way. Instead of communicating openly, people who engage in this type of behavior share their negative feelings through actions. Passive aggressive personality disorder was once also a psychiatric diagnosis.

Other Word Forms

• passive-aggression noun

Etymology

Origin of passive-aggressive

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

It’s not only a poor form of communication in that it’s passive-aggressive, but it also creates an environment where it becomes increasingly prevalent and acceptable.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 3, 2026

The conflict is often subtle, she explains, and as well as exclusion can include gossip and passive-aggressive comments.

From BBC • Jan. 17, 2026

Lahren showed up with tales of a passive-aggressive ice cream vendor, suspect Vons shoppers and “mean girls.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 19, 2024

Coleman gets to hit some of his usual sour notes when Bill stands up to Norman’s passive-aggressive bullying, but he’s not the villain of the story this time.

From New York Times • May 18, 2024

“I wasn’t trying to be passive-aggressive, Mama. It’s just been a long day. My brain isn’t running on a hundred percent.”

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro