Definition of: passive

(pas′iv) adjective
1. Acted upon or receiving impressions from external agents or causes; being the object rather than the subject of action; moved by or as by external force or influence.
2. In a state of rest or quiescence; not vitally or mentally active; unresponsive.
3. Unresisting; submissive; passive obedience.
4. Chem. Characterized by a disinclination to enter into combination; inactive; inert.
5. Gram. Designating a voice of the verb which indicates that the subject is being acted upon, as, was killed is in the passive voice in Caesar was killed by Brutus: opposed to active.
6. Not bearing interest: said of bonds which yield the holder a profit or benefit, while no rate percent is named; having reference to a debt which, by agreement, is non-interest-bearing; of the nature of a liability.
7. Med. Designating certain abnormal conditions marked by relaxation of blood vessels and tissues, indicating impaired vitality and reaction.
8. Not provided with, or not making use of, motive power.
—noun Gram.
1. The passive voice.
2. A verb or construction in this voice. [<L passivus <passus, pp. of pati suffer]
—pas′sive·ly adverb
—pas′sive·ness noun