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Definition of "obsessive-compulsive" []

  • Relating to or characterized by a tendency to dwell on unwanted thoughts or ideas or perform certain repetitious rituals, especially as a defense against anxiety from unconscious conflicts: obsessive-compulsive behavior. (adjective)
  • An obsessive-compulsive person. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "obsessive-compulsive" in a sentence
  • "I was feeling the first flush of a condition now known as obsessive-compulsive disorder OCD, which is part of the suite of symptoms commonly seen in combat veterans."
  • "There are treatments, even cures, for depression, paranoia and obsessive-compulsive disorder."
  • "Stress-induced conditions include hair loss, heart disease, obesity, obsessive-compulsive disorder, sexual dysfunction, tooth and gum disease and ulcers or indigestion."