passivity

[ pa-siv-i-tee ]

/ pæˈsɪv ɪ ti /

Also pas·sive·ness

[pas-iv-nis]. /ˈpæs ɪv nɪs/. the state or condition of being passive.

chemical inactivity, especially the resistance to corrosion of certain metals when covered with a coherent oxide layer.

QUIZZES

It’d be a real faux pas to miss this quiz on the words from August 3–9, 2020!

Question 1 of 7

What does “vacillate” mean?

First recorded in 1650–60; passive + -ity

The first debate moved the polls because Obama, through his passivity, allowed Romney to shine.
Obama Wins Second Debate, But Romney Scores With Centrist, Likable Storyline|Peter Beinart|October 17, 2012|DAILY BEAST
Layoff seems to be the most commonly used word despite—or maybe because of—a passivity that cheats the impact of the experience.
The Unemployed Finally Speak Out: D.W. Gibson’s ‘Not Working’|D.W. Gibson|June 19, 2012|DAILY BEAST
These historical warnings, however, should not become a justification for passivity.
Our Next Step in the Middle East|Jeremi Suri|October 8, 2011|DAILY BEAST
In fact, his passivity has called Ken's very existence into question.
How Ken Won Barbie's Heart Back|Danielle Friedman|February 14, 2011|DAILY BEAST

Moreover, she blames the coalition for months of passivity, failing to attack the insurance industry.
The Netroots Take the Gloves Off|Art Levine|October 31, 2009|DAILY BEAST
He seized her hand, and then volition seemed to leave her, and she went off into a state of passivity.
Far from the Madding Crowd|Thomas Hardy
Yet it pleased, it somewhat relieved, his kinsman to see his passivity as not a little foolish.
The Tragic Muse|Henry James
Alspaugh's blundering in bringing the company into line awakened this ire from a passivity to activity.
The Red Acorn|John McElroy
He quaffed deeply and exhaustively that cup of joy in the quiescence and passivity of complete happiness.
The conquest of Rome|Matilde Serao
You scorn their passivity; but it was their nature and their merit to be passive.
New Grub Street|George Gissing