transitive verb

noun

, Grammar.

1. a verb accompanied by a direct object and from which a passive can be formed, as deny, rectify, elect.

transitive verb

1. A verb that needs a direct object to complete its meaning. Bring , enjoy , and prefer are transitive verbs. ( Compare intransitive verb .)

Notes

Some verbs can be transitive in one sentence and intransitive in another: turned is transitive in “Brenda turned the wheel sharply” but intransitive in “Fred turned when I called.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of transitive verb¹

First recorded in 1580–90

Example Sentences

Thus hear is a transitive verb, for it affirms something of an object; I hear the bell.

From Project Gutenberg

The active voice is that form of a transitive verb which makes the subject and the agent the same word.

From Project Gutenberg

A transitive verb is one which must have an object to complete its meaning, and to receive the action expressed.

From Project Gutenberg

This word completing a transitive verb is sometimes called a factitive object, or second object, but it is a true complement.

From Project Gutenberg

The presence of a transitive verb implies also the presence of a noun; which noun is the name of the object affected.

From Project Gutenberg