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adjective British English pronunciation: active /ˈæktɪv/
 
  1. 1
    someone who is active does a lot of different activities and has a lot of energy and interests

    People are remaining active into later life.

    meditation techniques to keep the mind active and alert

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  activeThesaurus entry for this meaning of active
    1. a.
      very involved in the work of an organization or with a particular activity
      active in:

      She continues to be active in politics.

      active member:

      He is an active member of the American Cancer Society.

      Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  activeThesaurus entry for this meaning of active
    2. b.
      used about a period or event that is full of busy activity

      We had a very active weekend.

      Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  activeThesaurus entry for this meaning of active
  2. 2
    taking positive action in order to make something happen, rather than just hoping that it will happen

    There are already active discussions going on.

    Active steps are being taken to calm the situation.

    We couldn’t have organized the show without the active support and participation of the students’ parents.

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  activeThesaurus entry for this meaning of active
  3. 3
    operating or working in a particular area or at a particular time

    Pickpockets are known to be active in the area.

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  activeThesaurus entry for this meaning of active
    1. a.
      regularly doing a particular activity
      sexually active (=having sex regularly):

      sexually active young women

      Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  activeThesaurus entry for this meaning of active
    2. b.
      an active electrical system is working

      The burglar alarm becomes active ten seconds after you set it.

      Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  activeThesaurus entry for this meaning of active
  5. 5
    chemistry producing a chemical or biological reaction

    What is the active ingredient in detergents?

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  activeThesaurus entry for this meaning of active

This is the British English definition of active. View American English definition of active.

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