transitive verb

noun Grammar.

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

Origin of transitive verb

First recorded in 1580–90

Words nearby transitive verb

transitional cell carcinoma, transitional denture, transitional epithelium, transitional zone, transitive, transitive verb, transitman, transitory, transitory action, transjordan, transkei

Cultural definitions for transitive verb

transitive verb

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

notes for transitive verb

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.”